What is medical malpractice?

Medical malpractice is a type of professional negligence that occurs when a medical professional or health care provider fails to offer proper care to a patient. It is a form of personal injury law that holds healthcare providers responsible for any harm they cause to a patient through a negligent act or omission. In Pennsylvania, medical malpractice claims must be brought within two years of the date the injury occurred, or within two years of when the injury should have been discovered, whichever is longer. Medical malpractice includes any act or the failure to act that is not consistent with the accepted standard of medical care. For instance, if a doctor failed to diagnose a serious condition or provided incorrect treatment for a patient, this could be considered medical malpractice. Medical malpractice can also include errors in medical judgement, such as prescribing the wrong medication or recommending a procedure that isn’t necessary. In Pennsylvania, victims of medical malpractice can seek compensation for their damages, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A successful medical malpractice claim requires proof that the medical professional involved acted negligently and that the patient suffered a quantifiable injury as a result. Victims of medical malpractice should speak to an experienced attorney to ensure their rights are protected and that they receive the compensation they deserve.

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