Many people have likely have visited a dentist for a routine cleaning or some other dental health issue. No one expects to suffer a serious or fatal error at the dentist office. In fact, most people may not even categorize dental errors as medical malpractice. But, the reality is that dentist's errors fall under the umbrella of medical malpractice and the same principle of negligence applies.
What you should know about medical malpractice
Most people are aware that doctors endure many years of education and pass exams before they can practice medicine and provide medical care to patients. Though doctors have undergone years of medical training, it is important for people to remember that doctors are human beings, and some of them might make a medical mistake which might harm the patient. That patient could be a loved one or it could be you.
Patient sues doctor and hospital for negligence
When one least expects it, seeking medical attention and care may become necessary in some cases, such as when an individual falls and suffers a fracture or has another type of accident. Falls, accidents requiring medical care and other injuries can happen at any time, without notice to anyone. When such incidents occur, most people can rest assured that hospitals and doctors can tend to their needs. However, doctors are human and human beings can make errors. Particularly when doctors make mistakes such as failing to diagnose a condition, the patient may suffer harm due to negligence and may be entitled to compensation.
Medical error rates: How is Connecticut doing?
The issues of hospital negligence and medical malpractice have played out publicly and politically here in Connecticut as they have in many other states. In 2005, the state legislature passed several medical malpractice-related measures, some of which make it more difficult for patients and their families to sue for injuries and death.