Medical Malpractice in Washington State: Common Causes and How to Seek Justice
Medical malpractice in Washington State is a major problem and can impact patients when seeking care in hospitals, clinics, and local doctor offices. Mistakes and errors on the part of healthcare professionals can leave you or someone you love suffering severe, potentially life-threatening harm.
Our experienced Issaquah medical malpractice attorney provides trusted legal guidance and the fierce representation clients require in these cases. We explain some of the common causes of medical malpractice and how to get a sense of justice and the compensation you need to recover in a claim.
Common Ways Medical Malpractice in Washington State Happens
Medical malpractice in Issaquah happens when doctors, nurses, surgeons, or other medical professionals fail to meet the accepted standard of care for the industry and cause potentially serious harm to a patient. Malpractice reports from the Washington State Department of Insurance reveal it is among the leading causes of injury and death across the state. Common ways it happens include:
- Surgical Errors: These include mistakes such as operating on the wrong person or body part, forgetting surgical instruments inside the patient, or making cuts that damage surrounding tissues.
- Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis: Failure to diagnose a medical condition or delay in diagnosing it can lead to worsened conditions, preventable complications, and my result in an untimely death.
- Medication Errors: Administering the wrong dose and failing to account for allergic reactions and side effects can lead to prolonged hospital stays and worsening health.
- Birth Injuries: Failure to monitor a baby’s health during delivery can cause cerebral palsy, Erb’s palsy, brain damage, or other serious issues. Birth injuries can also happen due to improper use of delivery instruments, failing to perform a timely C-section, and mismanagement of labor complications.
- Anesthesia Errors: Errors in anesthesia administration can cause complications such as brain damage, respiratory issues, or death.
If You Suspect Medical Malpractice In Issaquah
Medical malpractice can cause life-threatening harm. If you suspect you or someone you love is a victim, take the following steps to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Get a second opinion from another qualified healthcare professional;
- Gather copies of all your medical records, test results, treatment notes, and correspondence from providers;
- Keep a journal documenting the harm you suffered and the impact it has on your life;
- Keep copies of all medical bills, lost earnings, and other costs you incur.
Washington State has strict laws regarding medical malpractice, which include limiting how long you have to file a lawsuit. To get a sense of justice and the compensation you are entitled to, contact our Issaquah medical malpractice attorney today.
Request A Consultation With Our Experienced Issaquah Medical Malpractice Attorney
If you or someone you love is a victim of medical malpractice in Washington State, Injury Law Group NW provides the trusted legal guidance and fierce representation you need to file a claim. We take on medical providers and their insurers, fighting to get you justice and the maximum compensation. Contact our office and request a consultation with our Issaquah medical malpractice attorney today.
Sources:
insurance.wa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2024-medmal-annual-rpt-final_0.pdf
app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=4.16.350
