Common Causes of Medical Malpractice in Maryland

Medical malpractice is a serious issue that can have devastating effects on patients and their families. In Maryland, like in many other states, various factors contribute to medical malpractice claims. Understanding these common causes can help patients make informed decisions and seek proper care. Below are some of the most frequent reasons behind medical malpractice in Maryland.

1. Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis
One of the most prevalent causes of medical malpractice is misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. When a healthcare provider fails to accurately diagnose a patient’s condition or takes too long to reach a diagnosis, it can lead to inappropriate or ineffective treatment. This is particularly dangerous in cases of serious conditions like cancer or heart disease, where timely intervention is crucial.

2. Surgical Errors
Surgical errors can occur for various reasons, including lack of proper communication among surgical team members, operating on the wrong site, or leaving instruments inside the patient’s body. Such errors can lead to severe complications, prolonged recovery times, or even fatal outcomes.

3. Medication Errors
Medication errors are another common cause of malpractice. These can occur during the prescribing, dispensing, or administration of medications. Factors such as illegible handwriting, failure to check for drug interactions, or providing the wrong dosage can result in serious harm to patients.

4. Birth Injuries
Birth injuries can arise due to medical negligence during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Conditions such as cerebral palsy or Erb’s palsy may be caused by improper fetal monitoring, failure to perform a timely C-section, or lack of oxygen during birth. These injuries can have lifelong effects on the child and their family.

5. Failure to Treat
In some cases, healthcare providers may fail to provide necessary treatment for a diagnosed condition. This neglect can lead to worsening health or even death. Patients rely on their providers to give appropriate care, and any failure in this area can be considered malpractice.

6. Lack of Informed Consent
Informed consent is a critical aspect of medical treatment. Patients have the right to understand the risks and benefits of procedures or treatments they undergo. When a healthcare provider fails to provide adequate information or fails to obtain consent properly, they may be liable for malpractice if the patient suffers harm.

7. Poor Communication
Effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients is vital for successful treatment. Miscommunication can lead to misunderstandings, incorrect treatment plans, and ultimately patient harm. Poor documentation of medical records can also exacerbate these issues.

8. Negligence in Follow-Up Care
Follow-up care is essential for monitoring a patient’s recovery and making necessary adjustments to treatment plans. Negligence in follow-up can result in overlooked complications or undiagnosed conditions that worsen over time.

Conclusion
Understanding the common causes of medical malpractice can empower patients in Maryland and beyond to advocate for their health and safety. If you believe you have been a victim of medical malpractice, it is crucial to seek legal advice to explore your options for pursuing a claim and obtaining the compensation you deserve.