Medicine might not be an exact science, but even in cases where providers cannot help patients, they should at least avoid causing any harm. Sadly, medical malpractice is far more common than it should be, and negligent doctors are responsible for a significant number of personal injury claims each year. Unlike car accidents and other cases that involve a single inciting incident, however, recognizing malpractice can be challenging. Here are a few signs you might have received substandard care from a provider or facility.

How to Tell if You Have Been the Victim of Medical Malpractice 

1. Your Condition Does Not Improve 

Although some conditions don’t respond to treatment, patients who don’t improve following a procedure might have reason to suspect medical malpractice. If the doctor misdiagnosed the condition, for example, it will not respond to the standard treatment modality. Unfortunately, misdiagnoses are incredibly common. According to CBS News, 12 million American adults receive an inaccurate diagnosis every year. 

2. Your Treatment Is Invasive From the Start 

Some diseases might call for aggressive treatment approaches upon diagnosis, but in many cases, doctors should avoid invasive tests and procedures unless necessary. If it feels like your provider is recommending a lot of unnecessary treatments, it is okay to seek a second opinion. You have the right to explore all of your options before committing to a risky procedure that could do more harm than good. 

3. Your Doctor Is Frazzled

If the facility seems understaffed or the physician is harried and fails to give you adequate attention, something is likely to slip through the cracks—if it hasn’t already. In some circumstances, neglecting a patient can be just as dangerous as committing an error during a procedure. If your health deteriorated after receiving inattentive care, you might have grounds for a personal injury claim. 

If you think you have been the victim of medical malpractice, turn to the compassionate team at Best & Westover Law. Based in Kalispell, MT, this firm is proud to practice in a variety of areas, so they can help clients resolve all kinds of legal issues. In addition to personal injury claims, they also practice family, criminal, and immigration law. Whether you want to file for divorce or fight DUI charges, you can rely on them for quality counsel during every step of the proceedings. Visit their website to explore their areas of expertise, or call (406) 752-8731 to schedule an initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer today.