Common Types of Medical Malpractice Cases in Pennsylvania

Medical malpractice is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences for patients and their families. In Pennsylvania, like in many other states, medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional deviates from the standard of care, causing harm to a patient. Understanding the common types of medical malpractice cases can help victims recognize when they have been wronged and seek the legal assistance they need. 

Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. specializes in medical malpractice cases in Pennsylvania, offering expert guidance and representation to those affected. This article will explore the most common types of medical malpractice cases in Pennsylvania and how Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. can assist you.

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis

Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis is one of the most prevalent types of medical malpractice cases. These cases occur when a doctor fails to diagnose a condition correctly or in a timely manner, leading to incorrect treatment, delayed treatment, or no treatment at all. This can result in worsening of the patient’s condition, unnecessary suffering, or even death.

For example, a patient presenting with symptoms of a heart attack might be misdiagnosed with a less serious condition like acid reflux. The delay in proper diagnosis and treatment can lead to severe complications or fatal outcomes. Misdiagnosis can also involve failing to recognize cancer, resulting in lost critical treatment time and reduced chances of survival.

Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. has extensive experience in handling misdiagnosis cases. Their legal team meticulously reviews medical records, consults with medical experts, and constructs compelling cases to prove that a healthcare provider’s negligence led to the patient’s harm. If you or a loved one has suffered due to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. is equipped to help you seek justice and compensation.

Surgical Errors

Surgical errors are another common form of medical malpractice that can have severe consequences for patients. These errors can range from operating on the wrong site, leaving surgical instruments inside a patient’s body, or causing unintended damage to internal organs.

One notable case involved a patient who underwent surgery for the removal of a benign tumor but woke up to find that the surgeon had removed a healthy kidney by mistake. Such egregious errors not only lead to significant physical harm but also emotional and financial stress due to additional surgeries and extended recovery periods.

Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. understands the complexities involved in surgical malpractice cases. They work with medical professionals to gather evidence, identify deviations from the standard of care, and build a strong case to hold the responsible parties accountable. By partnering with Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C., victims of surgical errors can navigate the legal system with confidence and seek the compensation they deserve.

Medication Mistakes

Medication mistakes can occur at various stages of the treatment process, including prescribing the wrong medication, administering the incorrect dosage, or failing to consider harmful drug interactions. These errors can lead to severe allergic reactions, worsening of the medical condition, or even death.

For instance, if a patient with a known penicillin allergy is prescribed a medication containing penicillin, the results can be catastrophic. Similarly, administering a dosage much higher than what is required can lead to an overdose, causing critical health issues.

Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C.’s expertise in medication error cases ensures that victims receive comprehensive legal support. They investigate the circumstances surrounding the medication mistake, consult with pharmaceutical experts, and pursue legal action to hold healthcare providers accountable. If you or someone you know has been affected by a medication error, Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. is committed to helping you achieve justice and fair compensation.

Birth Injuries

Birth injuries are among the most heartbreaking types of medical malpractice cases, affecting newborns and their families. These injuries can result from negligence during prenatal care, labor, or delivery, leading to lifelong disabilities or even death. Common birth injuries include cerebral palsy, brachial plexus injuries, and fractures.

For example, improper use of forceps during delivery can cause significant trauma to the baby’s head and shoulders, resulting in conditions like Erb’s palsy. Failure to monitor fetal distress can lead to oxygen deprivation, causing permanent brain damage.

Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. is dedicated to fighting for the rights of families affected by birth injuries. They understand the emotional and financial burdens that these injuries impose and work tirelessly to secure compensation for medical expenses, ongoing care, and pain and suffering. Their compassionate approach and legal expertise make Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. a reliable ally for families seeking justice for birth injuries.

Anesthesia Errors

Anesthesia errors, though less common, can have devastating effects on patients. These errors include administering too much or too little anesthesia, failing to monitor the patient properly, or not recognizing and responding to anesthesia-related complications.

A patient undergoing surgery might suffer from anesthesia awareness, a condition where they wake up during surgery and experience pain but are unable to move or communicate. In other cases, incorrect dosage can lead to severe cardiovascular complications or brain damage due to lack of oxygen.

Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C.’s experience with anesthesia error cases enables them to provide robust representation for affected patients. They scrutinize medical records, collaborate with anesthesia experts, and build a case that demonstrates the healthcare provider’s negligence. If you have suffered due to an anesthesia error, Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. can help you pursue legal action and secure the compensation you need for recovery.

Seeking Legal Help with Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C.

Medical malpractice cases are complex and emotionally challenging. Victims often face significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. In Pennsylvania, Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. stands as a beacon of hope for those affected by medical negligence. Their expertise in handling various types of medical malpractice cases ensures that victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

If you or a loved one has been harmed due to medical malpractice, don’t hesitate to reach out to Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C.. Their dedicated team will guide you through the legal process, provide expert advice, and work tirelessly to achieve a favorable outcome for your case. Trust Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. to be your advocate in the fight against medical malpractice.