Medical malpractice more likely for chronically ill kids

Most healthcare providers are dedicated, well-trained and well-meaning professionals, but still they can cause injury to a patient through mistakes. When a patient is hospitalized more frequently or for longer periods, these medical errors are more likely to occur. Children with chronic health conditions are more likely to be affected by medical errors, according to a new study published in the journal Pediatrics. Because these children have more complicated conditions and have to stay in the hospital longer, they are more at risk of injury through medical mistakes. The study found that just over five percent of children with a chronic condition were affected by medical errors, compared to only 1.3 percent of children without chronic conditions. In legal terms, medical malpractice is any negligent act or failure to act by a medical professional that results in an injury to a patient. Depending on the circumstances, a medical malpractice lawsuit can be filed against a doctor, a hospital or government agencies that run healthcare facilities. A victim of medical malpractice may be entitled to compensation for his or her injuries caused by the negligence. Medical malpractice lawsuits, however, are notoriously complex and often involve expert testimony. Many states have imposed restrictions on filing medical malpractice claims and some have imposed caps on the amount courts can award to injured patients. It’s important that people injured by medical negligence be compensated for their injuries. A NYC medical malpractice attorney can provide advice and guidance about potential claims. Source: Reuters.com, “More hospital errors when kids have chronic ills,” Amy Norton, Sept. 11, 2012