Residents of Pennsylvania including the Philadelphia area often contact us to discuss a potential medical malpractice case. The most common inquiries we receive are related to misdiagnosis of stroke, heart attack, cancer and infections like sepsis.
Typically, patients are unsure of whether they have a valid medical malpractice case in Pennsylvania. Oftentimes, the patient suspects something is amiss, but isn’t sure how to proceed.
In this medical malpractice article, our lawyers discuss the steps to take if you suspect medical malpractice by a doctor, specialist, or large facility like a hospital.
Get a second opinion
If you believe an error has been made in diagnosing or treating you, you should first act promptly and find another doctor as soon as possible so any medical mistakes can be identified and corrected. If you are hospitalized, ask to be transferred to a new facility.
Request an autopsy
If a loved one has died, consider having an autopsy performed. The cause of death reported by a hospital may not be accurate. Family members are often unaware that they may request an autopsy in Pennsylvania, and if one is not performed, they may be able to obtain a private autopsy.
Request medical records
Medical records are an important piece of evidence in every medical malpractice case. When an obvious mistake has been made, healthcare professionals sometimes go back and change the records to cover their tracks.
While it is illegal to falsify medical records, sometimes it is done anyway to avoid liability. Therefore, it is important to obtain a copy of your records as soon as possible to preserve any and all relevant information.
Contact an attorney who specializes in medical malpractice
Pennsylvania hospital malpractice claims are one of the most complex and expensive types of lawsuits that exist. They require ample experience and resources to successfully prove your case, which most law firms do not have. That is why it is very important to choose wisely when selecting which attorney will represent you. The medical malpractice attorneys at Morris Wilson Knepp Jacquette, P.C. are known by defense attorneys and insurance companies throughout the greater Philadelphia region for successfully litigating countless medical malpractice claims.
Document your injuries and treatment
Keep a journal with dates, times, names of doctors and nurses, medication administered, follow-up appointments, etc. Take photographs of your injuries. Write down how this doctor’s mistake has impacted your life.
What not to do if you suspect medical malpractice
Do not contact the healthcare provider or facility involved in the suspected malpractice directly. A Pennsylvania cancer misdiagnosis attorney should handle this. Avoid social media posts.