A medical professional commits malpractice when he or she fails to provide a patient with the appropriate standard of care. However, many people in Los Angeles might not understand the standard of care they are owed. In addition to breaches of efficacy and policy, there are other types of medical malpractice.
Absence of diagnosis or license
Patients have the right to make sure medical professionals have the appropriate licenses, certifications and professional backgrounds. It is possible for providers who practice without a permit to be held responsible for injuries caused by their negligence. Failure to diagnose is another potential cause of medical malpractice. An absence of a diagnosis occurs when a patient leaves a facility with no clarity or documents explaining the doctor’s findings, even if the patient went for a general checkup.
Disregard and no explanation of risk
After the doctors perform their examination, coming up with no conclusions despite specific details regarding symptoms provided by the patient may constitute malpractice. When a patient gets a second opinion from a professional who provides a different opinion than the first professional, the patient may have a claim against the first doctor if the evidence suggests he or she should have reached a similar conclusion. Another example of malpractice may occur when a health care provider fails to tell the patient that the risks of a specific procedure outweigh the benefits.
Breach of confidentiality
A breach occurs when health care information about a patient is released without the patient’s permission. The patient’s right to respond is protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Some Californians will not seek medical treatment because of trauma, prior treatment or just general fear. However, understanding the standard of care owed to them can guide them in pursuing financial relief by filing medical malpractice lawsuits when appropriate to the circumstances.
