What is the First Step in Pursuing a Medical Negligence Claim?

Medical negligence can have profound effects on patients and their families. Patients can experience long-lasting health effects—and even death—and their families may be left to deal with the consequences. The first step in pursuing a medical negligence claim is often consulting a lawyer for malpractice or medical negligence. 

Below, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo, P.C. explore the essential elements of initiating a medical negligence claim and a dedicated attorney’s role in guiding you through the process.

What is Medical Negligence?

Medical negligence, also known as medical malpractice, refers to the failure of healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, surgeons, or hospitals, to provide an acceptable standard of care, resulting in harm or injury to a patient. It occurs when a healthcare provider deviates from their profession’s recognized standards and practices, leading to adverse consequences for the patient. 

Medical negligence can include everything from failure to diagnose, surgical errors, or medication mistakes to anesthesia errors or failure to provide proper follow-up care. Establishing that the healthcare provider’s actions deviated from the expected standards of care and directly caused harm to the patient is essential to a successful claim.

Do I Need to Consult a Lawyer for Medical Negligence?

The short answer is yes. The expertise of a malpractice lawyer is invaluable when faced with this type of claim. These experienced professionals possess extensive knowledge of medical standards, legal procedures, and strategies that insurance companies and healthcare providers employ to defend against claims. They serve as advocates from the beginning and know how to navigate the legal landscape.

How Do I Take the First Step for a Medical Negligence Claim?

The first step in pursuing a medical negligence claim is to schedule an initial consultation with a malpractice or medical negligence lawyer. During this consultation, you can share the details of your case and discuss your concerns. It is vital to provide your lawyer with all relevant documents and information, including medical records, test results, and any correspondence related to the incident.

They will carefully review the provided information, assessing the strength of your case and its potential for success. They will also evaluate your claim honestly, considering factors such as the medical treatment received, the expected standard of care, and evidence that the malpractice occurred. If your lawyer determines that your medical malpractice case has merit, they can take legal steps to seek compensation on your behalf.

If you believe you have been a victim of medical negligence or have questions regarding a potential claim, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. Time is of the essence, and there are often statutes of limitations that impose deadlines for filing a lawsuit. Therefore, consulting with a lawyer for malpractice or medical negligence as soon as possible must be your first step.

Pursuing a medical negligence claim requires taking the first step of consulting with a knowledgeable lawyer. 

With their expertise and guidance, you can navigate the legal process with confidence and work towards obtaining the justice and compensation you may be entitled to for the harm suffered due to medical malpractice. Remember, you are not alone in this journey – the skilled medical negligence attorneys at SPBMCC are ready to stand by your side and fight for your rights.

Contact the Experienced NYC Medical Malpractice Lawyers at SPBMCC to Seek Justice Today

Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo, P.C. is a reputable full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas, including medical negligence cases. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in matters such as 9/11-related illnesses, personal injury, car accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, product liability, and firefighter law across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.