Navigating a medical malpractice case can be complicated, but with the right help from an attorney, attention to detail, and a little research, it’s manageable, too. If you or someone you love have been a victim of medical malpractice, start saving medical records now, and begin collecting the evidence you’ll need as you work through both your case and recovery. For tips on how to navigate a medical malpractice claim, read on.
Getting Professional Help
Medical malpractice is serious. If you’ve been hurt by a doctor’s negligence, you already know the damage that’s been done. From long term income loss to health issues into the future, there’s a lot to think about. While others are concerned with things like ‘how long does Viagra last‘ Google searches, someone like you has a lot more on their mind than sexual activity and normal sex life. The reality is that your life has changed, and it may well take a lawsuit to come close to recovering from damages incurred by malpractice.
As tempting as it may be to pretend this isn’t happening if you suspect medical malpractice, the best thing you can do for yourself or a loved one is to seek professional help. Personal injury lawyers with training in medical malpractice and medical negligence can help you file your claim and see the entire process through. They’ll be able to work with you to tally damages for your suffering and future losses, too.
If you aren’t sure if you have a case at all, give a malpractice lawyer a call, and ask for a free consultation. Bring a copy of your medical records with you and explain in as much detail as you can why you believe a medical malpractice lawsuit might be in your best interest. Most lawyers offer that first consultation for free, so getting information can’t hurt. Waiting or blowing it off could.
Saving Records
Whether you hire a medical malpractice lawyer or not, the only way to have a shot in a medical malpractice lawsuit is to have a detailed record of not only your current medical records but also your medical history. You’ll want to compile your medical files in one place in chronological order. When navigating a medical malpractice case, be sure to keep track of your expenses, receipts, and drug prices, or other important pieces of information, too. Even if it’s your therapy bill, if it’s related to your medical malpractice suit, you’ll want to be able to account for it.
Taking Time for Self Care
On top of your medical injury or illness, odds are that you’re stressed out mentally, too. If this is the case, make sure to plan time for self-care. Your mental wellness will matter as much as your physical health as you work to navigate a medical malpractice lawsuit. Do what you can to surround yourself with a good support system, take that time off for a day at the spa, buy yourself those magnetic eyelashes, read a good book, and do what you can to rest where you can. While your ongoing medical care is important, self-care should also be a big part of your overall recovery plan.
The more rested you are, the better chances you’ll have in navigating the legal actions ahead. Make it a priority to work out a daily self-care routine now.
Advocating for Yourself
Before taking your case to court, make sure to find a new medical professional you trust. Be transparent with them about what you’ve been through, and advocate for yourself. Tell them about your bad experience, and explain what you’ll need from them going forward. Some people are afraid to tell their new doctor that they’re involved with a medical malpractice suit. Sadly, this means they aren’t able to advocate as well for themselves even when getting a second opinion. Make a vow not to do that for yourself and to be honest with your next doctor. While trust will be hard, you can take the next step in establishing trust in your new relationship with another provider.
In the end, navigating a medical malpractice suit isn’t generally advised for beginners. In finding a medical malpractice lawyer you trust, taking care of yourself, working with your new healthcare provider, and keeping good records, you can set yourself up for a successful suit. Best wishes on a speedy recovery for you.