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Medical malpractice issues and hospitalists

A New York resident who spends time in the hospital is likely to be treated by a hospitalist at some point. Although this specialty has only been around for approximately 20 years, the role of the hospitalist is prominent in patient care. This party typically acts much like a primary care physician in overseeing and coordinating the involvement of other specialists during a patient’s stay.

Facts about Early Discharge Malpractice

In 2012, the total number of medical malpractice payouts made throughout the United States was 12,142. This means that one claim was brought every 45 minutes.

Cancer doctor could lose license for medical misconduct

Cancer patients in New York might be surprised to learn that, since 1970, a doctor has been treating patients with antineoplastons, for which there is insufficient evidence to prove that they work. Despite being backed by actress Suzanne Somers and famous surgeon Dr. Oz, the Texas Medical Board has investigated the doctor, and he could lose his license for medical misconduct.

Communication errors can result in medical malpractice claims

New York patients may find it interesting that poor communications between patients and hospital staff contributed to about 7,000 of 23,000 medical malpractice claims that were filed between 2009 and 2013. Of these claims, more than 1,700 involved the death of a patient. The numbers indicate that miscommunication is a major problem that needs to be addressed by hospitals and staff.

Malpractice Liability for Postoperative Lymphedema

Many different complications can occur after surgery. Because the body is in a vulnerable condition, it increases the likelihood of health problems. Post-surgery blood clots and infection are two of the more common complications that crop up after surgery. Although it is less common, lymphedema is a very serious complication that can result in health issues throughout a patient’s life.

A look at medical malpractice statistics

New York patients may be interested in a study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, that looked into the rate of recurring malpractice claims against physicians. People implicitly and explicitly trust their doctors on a daily basis, but medical errors can and do sometimes happen. Knowing some of the statistics behind malpractice claims can help patients make a more informed decision about their own well-being.

Proving Medical Malpractice in Bowel Perforation Incidents

Generally, a perforated bowel will cause the intestinal matters to flow into the abdominal cavity and result in widespread blood infections. Bowel perforation incidents happen during certain surgical procedures such as appendectomy, laparoscopy, hysterectomy, or colonoscopy.

Doctors who are sued once are likely to be sued a second time

New York patients may be interested to learn that, according to a study published in the The New England Journal of Medicine, doctors who have been sued for malpractice are more likely to be named as a defendant in another malpractice lawsuit. The study found that, during the period in question, 1 percent of the physicians analyzed were involved in 32 percent of the claims that were paid.

Are hospitals liable to third parties for malpractice?

A recent New York court case could have important consequences for malpractice lawsuits. A decision by the New York Court of Appeals has opened the door to the possibility of third parties being able to sue hospitals in the event of medical malpractice.