4 signs your doctor may have committed malpractice

Few things in life are more disheartening than not feeling well. After all, if you cannot get through your day without experiencing significant pain, your quality of life suffers. If you cannot find a diagnosis or develop a treatment plan, though, your illness or injury may be downright frustrating. 

Most doctors work diligently to treat their patients. As you probably know, physicians make occasional mistakes. If you think your doctor has acted outside professional guidelines, you may need to move quickly to protect your health and assert your legal rights. Here are four signs your doctor may have committed malpractice. 

1. You are not getting better 

Modern medicine often gives doctors a variety of tests and tools to diagnose and treat medical conditions. If your doctor does not use these measures, he or she may be unable to effectively care for you. Moreover, if the prescription medication or medical procedures your doctor uses do not make you feel better, you may have a medical malpractice case. 

2. You have surgical complications 

You have probably heard horror stories involving surgeons who leave forceps or sponges inside patients. These situations almost always constitute medical malpractice. Your experience does not have to be so severe, however. If you have complications following surgery, your physician may have made a terrible mistake. 

3. You hear your doctor admit fault 

Medical professionals are not perfect. While your doctor may take some time to diagnose and treat your injury, you should expect him or her to work both diligently and professionally. If your doctor admits fault, you can probably assume there exists some indication of malpractice in your medical records. 

4. You did not consent to a procedure 

Doctors must inform you before they begin any medical procedure. If you did not offer your informed consent, your doctor may be legally responsible. 

Even though medicine has advanced significantly in recent decades, doctors routinely make mistakes. If your physician’s actions caused you harm, though, you may have a valid malpractice claim. Remember, because of the statute of limitations, you may need to act quickly to ensure you receive compensation for your injuries or ongoing illnesses.