Louisianans go to the doctor expecting to receive medical care that effectively treats their condition. Yet, in order to receive adequate care, medical professionals have to take the proper steps. A medical condition must first be properly diagnosed, then a course of treatment must be defined, and, lastly, the treatment must be carried out correctly and safely. A mistake during any of these steps can lead to a worsened medical condition, leading to further harm or even death.
One Louisiana man knows this all too well after suffering extensive harm from a failure to diagnose. According to a recently filed medical malpractice lawsuit, the victim, a police officer, went to the hospital after suffering an ankle injury while on the job. However, medical professionals at the hospital discharged the officer without any further treatment. Still suffering from pain, the officer then went to another health care facility where he was later diagnosed with compartment syndrome. The lawsuit claims that the delay in diagnoses by the first hospital caused the officer to suffer nerve damage.
In order to succeed on a claim like this a victim must submit evidence establishing the applicable standard of care, as well as evidence proving that that standard was breached, thereby causing the victim injuries. This can be challenging, and often requires expert testimony and the submission of supporting evidence.
Those who feel like they need assistance with these legal aspects can choose to seek legal counsel. Medical malpractice attorneys can help develop a claim to attempt to impose liability on negligent doctors, nurses and hospitals, and they can also to show the extent of damages suffered. Hopefully, then, compensation will be awarded for losses such as medical expenses and lost wages.
Source: The Louisiana Record, “Police officer alleges medical malpractice in treatment of ankle injury,” Carrie Bradon, Nov. 23, 2016
