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Health care professionals like doctors and nurses aim to improve people’s health. Sometimes even these experts can make mistakes on the job, however, causing more harm than good for their patients. Medical malpractice lawsuits provide victims of these scenarios with compensation for everything from added medical expenses to emotional suffering. Due to the complexities of these cases, there are many misconceptions surrounding them. 

5 Misconceptions About Medical Malpractice

1. Any Mistake Equals a Lawsuit

medical malpracticeNot every mistake by a doctor is grounds for a lawsuit. Winning a medical malpractice case depends on proving that the professional responsible for your wellbeing acted negligently, departing from a generally acceptable standard of medical care.

2. Lawsuits Are Only Possible if You Are Physically Hurt

You don’t necessarily need to experience an egregious physical injury in order to make a claim. Lawsuits are also possible in instances where a doctor lies or withholds information, for instance, or even causes emotional distress with an incorrect diagnosis.  

3. Such Cases Drive Up Costs for Patients

Some people believe that medical malpractice lawsuits drive up insurance premiums for doctors—which in turn pass on these cost hikes to their patients. Unlike insurance for issues like car accidents, however, the insurance covering medical malpractice doesn’t necessarily increase with each incident. While doctors’ premiums have risen, this is largely due to general inflation and attempts by insurance companies to recoup costs lost on investments in stocks and bonds.

4. The Amount of Damages You Can Win Is Limited

Some states have put caps in place on how large medical malpractice claims can be. This should not deter you from seeking a claim, however. Courts have actually struck down such limits on damages

5. Medical Malpractice Cases Mean Easy Money

A successful case requires significant evidence, from medical expert testimony to the  analysis of complicated health care records. Most cases also take years to settle—this is no get-rich-quick scheme. Always talk to an attorney to asses the strength of your claim. They will have the knowledge and resources needed to know if it’s worth pursuing and—if so—can put together a compelling case for you.

 

The Law Office of Gregory S. Young provides residents throughout Ohio and Kentucky with knowledgeable legal representation in the field of personal injury law, including medical malpractice. Established in 1958, this Cincinnati, OH, law firm has been fighting for the rights of its clients for over 50 years. When it comes to personal injury cases, they are even available 24/7. You can request a free case evaluation online or by calling (513) 721-1077.

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