What to Do If Your Doctor Causes Additional Injury

Every day, millions of Americans line up for appointments with primary care physicians and other medical specialists for several conditions. We trust these professionals with our lives and to give us the most effective solution to our medical challenges.

However, there are certain times when even the most talented physicians make mistakes. It’s also possible that during these mistakes, you can suffer further injury.

This article discusses the proper steps to take when your doctor causes further injury or harm.

Accidents Happen

You have to remember that the business a doctor is in is called “a practice.” There’s a reason for this. Doctors learn as they go along, and there’s nothing guaranteed in the medical industry.

You must be prepared for the fact that when you undergo certain treatments and operations, there is a chance for complications. In the following section, we’ll provide a list of the steps you must take when this happens to you.

1.     Notify the Doctor

If the injury happens and you’re aware of it right away, make it known to the doctor. When possible, try not to let the physician attempt to probe any further.

First of all, they could cause further injury. Secondly, it’s also possible they’re trying to cover up the fact they made a mistake. There have been cases of physicians covering their tracks and blaming the injury on other sources in an attempt to avoid legal action.

Calmly collect your things and wrap up your appointment. If you notice the injury later, don’t return to the same doctor. Notify your attorney immediately.

2.     Documented Evidence

The next thing you need to do is document the incident. Take photos of the source of the injury and write down when the appointment was and when you began to feel the negative effects.

Any legal action requires the proper documentation. The more you can provide specifics of the case, the greater your chances of being compensated. For good measure, have a friend or family member on hand when you document all of this so they can vouch for your claim.

3.     Second Opinion

Go to a completely different physician that’s outside of your regular network. It should be a doctor that’s in no way associated with the one that caused the injury.

Have them examine the injury area and explain what happened when you received the injury. Make sure they write up a detailed report with their opinion regarding the matter. If they find evidence the injury was indeed caused by your doctor, make sure they clearly state this.

Submit all of the documents and evidence to your attorney, and they’ll advise you on the most appropriate course of action. You may feel guilty about pursuing this case, but your health is at stake, and you must be compensated for the time off work and additional expenses.