Most Common Types of Medical Negligence

In very simple terms, medical negligence is the maltreatment of a patient by a healthcare provider, doctor, or medical practitioner. The word ‘maltreatment’ covers a very broad spectrum, so we will try to explain it in the context of medical negligence. Maltreatment occurs when the standard of medical care provided to the patient falls below the acceptable standard as specified by the concerned medical authority. Now this definition of maltreatment alone is insufficient. To further explain, we will discuss some common types of medical negligence.

Birth Injury

Unfortunately, there are times when a child can suffer an injury during and/or immediately after birth. The cause might be some mistakes during or before the birth. For instance, the mother-to-be could be treated with the wrong drug before delivery hurting the child or the delivery could be mishandled by those supposed to look after her. Sometimes, the post-natal care provided to the child and mother may be insufficient or have an undesirably low standard. If the mother or child sustains an injury due to the aforementioned reasons, this might warrant eligibility for monetary compensation on grounds of medical negligence.

Hospital Negligence

Many areas can be covered under hospital negligence – from unsanitary conditions to mistreatment at the hands of hospital staff – it confers a wide array of claim types.

Misdiagnosis

Misdiagnosis is one of the most common types of errors made by doctors. Failing to diagnose or diagnosing a totally wrong condition falls into this category. It can lead to the patient getting incorrect treatment, which can worsen the condition.

Un-required Surgery

Another common complaint by victims of medical negligence – this happens when the patient is operated on unnecessarily and non-invasive techniques could have provided the solution.

Incorrect Medication

As the title suggests, you can make this claim if the medication provided to you was wrong and unneeded for the ailment you suffer from. Apart from not curing the problem, incorrect medication can have adverse effects on the body. It may result in grievous and permanent damage.

Anesthesia Error

Administration of the wrong type or strength of anesthetic agent can have disastrous consequences. Under dosage can leave the patient awake during the operation and overdosage can have equally dire results.

Medical Devices and Products

These days, doctors rely heavily on medical equipment. Equipment can be an electronic device, like a dialysis machine or pacemaker, or plain old medical instruments like a stethoscope or a scalpel. So if a medical instrument or device turns out to be faulty, it is usually the manufacturer’s fault and the manufacturer may have to pay compensation.

Dental Negligence

All the aforementioned types of claims might apply to dental treatments as well. Some cosmetic procedures may not be covered, but it is best to discuss things with a medical solicitor before undergoing an unusual medical procedure or treatment.

It is important to remember that your claim may be rejected if it is found that you failed to follow the doctor’s suggestions, prescriptions or adhere to the guidelines outlined by your healthcare provider.