When we are ill or require medical attention, we trust medical professionals to care for us and make us feel better. Although it is rare, sometimes a healthcare provider may make an error that leads to terrible outcomes. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider is negligent or fails to perform their duty to the accepted standards of care, causing injury or damages to their patients. In most cases, these medical errors result in physical, emotional, and financial implications for the patient. Thus, people must be aware of medical malpractice and who can be liable for it.
1. Healthcare Providers
A healthcare provider refers to anyone licensed to offer medical care and treatment, including but not limited to physicians, surgeons, pharmacists, nurses, and caregivers. These professionals are held to high standards, and in case of medical malpractice, they can be held liable for their errors. To prove liability, the injured party must prove that the healthcare provider failed to comply with the standard of care in their practice area and that this failure resulted in the patient's injury.
2. Hospitals and Medical Facilities
Hospitals and other medical facilities also have a responsibility to ensure patient safety. If an institution or hospital's employee engaged in malpractice while attending to your medical needs, the hospital can be held liable for their employee's actions. Hospitals must supervise their medical staff and have proper systems to avoid medical malpractice.
Harrisonburg Medical Malpractice Attorneys
At Obenshain Law Group, we are dedicated to assisting individuals in navigating medical malpractice claims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today at (540) 318-7360 to get started.