Avoiding a Medical Malpractice Case
Before performing a procedure, administering medication, or otherwise treating a patient, healthcare providers are legally required to explain the course of action to their patients, as well as disclosing any potential risks. But too often, communication between doctor and patient ends at this point. Lack of sufficient communication with a physician can lead to confusion for the patient and potentially consultation with a Pittsburgh medical malpractice lawyer if and when unexpected results occur. By expanding the dialogue between medical professionals and their patients before mistakes occur, it may be possible to avoid certain malpractice cases.
Proper communication between doctors and patients
All healthcare providers should consistently take the following steps to ensure that their patients are aware of their conditions and understand all of their options:
- Full explanation of diagnoses: Physicians should always be clear and detailed when explaining a diagnosis to a patient. If a patient lacks the capacity to understand his or her diagnosis, it may be appropriate to fully explain the condition of the patient to his or her next of kin, legal guardian, or other family member as well. By fully describing the condition of the patient, a physician can minimize or eliminate confusion regarding the overall prognosis. It is never fitting to downplay the seriousness of an illness or injury in order to quell the fears of a patient. Instead, doing this could lead to the patient or his or her loved ones securing a Pittsburgh medical malpractice attorney and initiating litigation when the outcome is unanticipated.
- Disclosure of risks and potential complications: It is crucial that healthcare providers communicate the possible risks and complications their patients might suffer, as well as the likelihood of their occurrence. Not only is a patient then equipped to decide whether to take those risks, but the patient then cannot be shocked if such complications do occur. This is one of the reasons patients must sign surgical consent forms before surgery.
- Involvement of patient in treatment: Medical professionals can avoid confusion by keeping their patients informed throughout the entire treatment process. Patients have a right to know the status of their health, whether a treatment regime is working, and if there are any changes to the original plan. Additionally, patients must always be involved in the decision-making process. They always have the right to decline treatment, seek a second opinion, or inquire about alternate options.
Contact Experienced Attorneys
If you are finding it impossible to communicate with your health care provider, or believe that you suffered malpractice due to miscommunication, Pittsburgh medical malpractice attorneys can help you resolve your issue.
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