When a victim or family has been harmed by medical negligence, they can suffer serious physical, financial and emotional damages. Because of this unfortunate reality, it is important for victims of medical malpractice to know who may be held liable for the harm and damages they have suffered.
Who may be liable for medical negligence? Unfortunately, there’s no one clear-cut answer. Each situation is different. Here are a few potential groups that may be liable for negligence:
Doctors, nurses and other medical care professionals
Medical service providers who have provided care and treatment that falls below the standard of care may be liable for any injury or harm caused to the victims. This can include doctors, surgeons, nurses and other medical care providers. When we are in a hospital, we expect professionals to treat and care for us in a manner that befits their position. Sadly, this isn’t always the case.
Hospitals
Hospitals may be liable for their own negligence, such as their maintenance of the hospital facility or equipment, or the negligent care provided by hospital employees. Hospitals may also be liable for negligent hiring and retention of employees who cause harm to patients or others. This can be especially true in larger hospital systems, where there isn’t just one person responsible for your wellbeing but a team. There are lots of chances for missed communication.
Pharmaceutical liability
In certain situations, such as a failure to warn of potential side effects, pharmaceutical companies may be liable for harm caused by pharmaceutical drugs they manufacture, produce and sell. Additionally, hospitals and staff may be liable for incorrectly dosing medications and for medication errors that harm victims.
Understanding medical malpractice and hospital negligence, and the rights and remedies of victims, is important for those harmed by their healthcare provider or at their local hospital. Victims may be able to recover compensation for the damages they suffer because of medical malpractice. Patients and their families place a great deal of trust in their medical care providers and the hospitals where they receive care which is why they have strong legal protections when that trust has been violated.