Washington Medical Malpractice Legal Questions

Want a good answer? Ask a thorough question starting with "Who, What, When, How, Will I or Do I".
Then, add details. This will help you get a quicker and better answer.
Question field is required
Explanation field is required
A valid US zip code is required Validating the Zip Code.
Question type field is required
Question type field is required
1
Ask a Question

2
Details

3
Submit
1
Ask a Question

2
Submit
Fullname is required
A valid email address is required.
Receive a follow-up from lawyers after your question is answered
A valid phone number is required
Select the best time for you to receive a follow-up call from a lawyer after your question is answered. (Required field)
to
Invalid Time

*Required fields

Question
Description
By submitting your question, you understand and agree to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy for use of the site. Do not include any personal information including name, email or other identifying details in your question or question details. An attorney-client relationship is not being established and you are not a prospective client of any attorney who responds to your question. No question, answer, or discussion of any kind facilitated on this site is confidential or legal advice. Questions answered are randomly selected based on general consumer interest and not all are addressed. Questions may display online and be archived by Martindale-Hubbell.
30 legal questions have been posted about medical malpractice by real users in Washington. Ask your question and dive into the knowledge of attorneys who handle your issue regularly. Similar topics to explore also include dental malpractice, birth injuries, and failure to diagnose. All topics and other states can be accessed in the dropdowns below.
Washington Medical Malpractice Questions & Legal Answers
Do you have any Washington Medical Malpractice questions and need some legal advice or guidance? Ask a Lawyer to get an answer or read through our 30 previously answered Washington Medical Malpractice questions.

Recent Legal Answers

I have had surgery on right hand 2 yrs ago now screws are coming out do I have malpractice lawsuit?

Answered 10 years and a month ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
No attorney can tell you whether your problems are related to a medical mistake or a defect in the screws without looking at the medical records and/or consulting an expert. Also, screws do protrude over time in the absence of negligence, so that fact alone does not mean that you have a viable medical malpractice case. If you want to investigate a case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, for more information about me.   Please understand that by answering your question in this informal forum I am not acting as your attorney. I am not doing anything to protect any legal rights that you have.  Medical malpractice cases need to be thoroughly investigated and to know whether you have a viable case, an attorney usually has to obtain and review all of the pertinent medical records and consult an expert.  John Ratkowitz, Esq. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com.  Click here for my website. ... Read More
No attorney can tell you whether your problems are related to a medical mistake or a defect in the screws without looking at the medical records... Read More

I just had a laser eye surgery to remove a cataract to my right eye - Cornea scratched

Answered 10 years and 2 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I would get a second opinion. The issue I would be concerned with is whether the increased pressure damaged the optic nerve. A second opinion will give you a better idea of what is going on, and then you can contact a lawyer.  If you want to investigate a case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case.     Click here, for more information about me. Please understand that by answering your question in this informal forum I am not acting as your attorney. I am not doing anything to protect any legal rights that you have.  Medical malpractice cases need to be thoroughly investigated and to know whether you have a viable case, an attorney usually has to obtain and review all of the pertinent medical records and consult an expert.  John Ratkowitz, Esq. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com.  Click here for my website.... Read More
I would get a second opinion. The issue I would be concerned with is whether the increased pressure damaged the optic nerve. A second opinion will... Read More

Can I sue the Hospital for negligence?

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If there was no harm from the vaccinations (and you don't suggest that there was in your post) then you are going to have a hard time finding an attorney to take the case because it is not financially viable. The articles below explain this in more detail. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Click here for my website. ... Read More
If there was no harm from the vaccinations (and you don't suggest that there was in your post) then you are going to have a hard time finding an... Read More

hippa violation

Answered 12 years and 2 months ago by Sarah Reese (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I am sorry to hear about this.  For more information about HIPAA and how to file a complaint, visit:  http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/hipaa/complaints/  Best of luck! NOTE:  This response is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice.  No attorney-client relationship exists or is formed by this response.   ... Read More
I am sorry to hear about this.  For more information about HIPAA and how to file a complaint,... Read More

Dr. was not honest about husbands cancer diagnosis

Answered 12 years and 4 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I am sorry for your loss.  The big question in most failure to diagnose cancer cases is whether the patient can prove that the doctor’s negligent care caused the damages suffered by the plaintiff. In essence, the plaintiff must be able  to show that earlier intervention would have changed the outcome. This is  a fact sensitive inquiry. An attorney will have to review the medical records and often get experts to review the pertinent radiography films to determine when accepted standards of care should have compelled a doctor to investigate the possible diagnosis. Then, if it is determined that the cancer was present and detectible, the next question becomes what was the likely stage/prognosis when the cancer should have been discovered. If the cancer was at an early stage when it should have been discovered, the case is more likely to be viable. If you want to investigate your case further, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts. If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com   Click here for my website. ... Read More
I am sorry for your loss.  The big question in most failure to diagnose cancer cases is whether the patient can prove that the doctor’s... Read More

If someone who goes to the hospital due to infection and gets sent home while still having the infection and dies from it can the family sue?

Answered 12 years and 4 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You may have a viable wrongful death case, but to know for sure an attorney will have to obtain and review all of the pertinent medical records. The big question will be whether different treatment would have prevented the outcome.  If you want to investigate a malpractice case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts,  ideally with experience in cases that involve your medical issue. If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Click here for my website. ... Read More
You may have a viable wrongful death case, but to know for sure an attorney will have to obtain and review all of the pertinent medical records. The... Read More

I had a my lung collapse after my lung biopsy

Answered 12 years and 4 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I don't know whether a lung collapse following a biopsy is an accepted complication of the procedure, but clearly if the prognosis you have been given is correct, you do not have a financially viable malpractice case. The articles below discuss this in more detail. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well.  Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Click here for my website. ... Read More
I don't know whether a lung collapse following a biopsy is an accepted complication of the procedure, but clearly if the prognosis you have been... Read More

where do i find a hipaa attorney?

Answered 12 years and 5 months ago by Sarah Reese (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I am not aware of any HIPAA attorneys in your area but, you do not need an attorney to file a HIPAA complaint.  For more information about HIPAA complaints and information on how to file one, please visit: http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/hipaa/complaints/  Best of luck. NOTE:  This response is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice. No attorney-client relationship exists or is formed as a result of this response.... Read More
I am not aware of any HIPAA attorneys in your area but, you do not need an attorney to file a HIPAA complaint.  For more information about HIPAA... Read More

Do I need to consult a lawer before going back to my surgeon

Answered 12 years and 5 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You need to get to a doctor ASAP because you have a postoperative infection. If he cannot see you immediately, go to the ER. Sort the medical problems out and contact an attorney when the dust settles from that. I do not know what the statute of limitations is in WA, but you certainly have time to deal with an emergent medical problems before worrying about the legalities your situation.  Later, if you want to investigate a malpractice case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts,  ideally with experience in cases that involve your medical issue. If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Click here for my website. ... Read More
You need to get to a doctor ASAP because you have a postoperative infection. If he cannot see you immediately, go to the ER. Sort the medical... Read More

Should I sue?

Answered 12 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Medication errors are very common. Whether an attorney will investigate a medical malpractice case as a result of a medication error caused lasting harm for the patient. Many times a patient will suffer minor harm from a medication mistake because they quickly notice something is amiss when they experience side effects from the medicine, and stop taking it and contact their health care provider, and the mistake is uncovered. If you suffer lasting harm from a medication error, and you want to investigate a medical malpractice case you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Click here for my website. ... Read More
Medication errors are very common. Whether an attorney will investigate a medical malpractice case as a result of a medication error caused lasting... Read More

What should I do if anything at all?

Answered 12 years and 9 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It is standard operating procedure to perform a pregnancy test when subjecting a woman to care that can have a detrimental impact on a baby.  If you want to investigate a malpractice case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts,  ideally with experience in cases that involve your medical issue. If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Click here for my website. ... Read More
It is standard operating procedure to perform a pregnancy test when subjecting a woman to care that can have a detrimental impact on a... Read More

is a wrong diagonsis reason for a malpractice suit

Answered 12 years and 10 months ago by Sarah Reese (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I'm sorry to hear about this.   Medical Malpractice cases are very difficult to prove and to win.  In order to have a successful Med Mal suit, you need to have significant damages caused by a lack or breach in the standard of care by a health care professional.  Most states make it very difficult to file a Med Mal suit.  Most states require that you have an expert witness (usually another doctor) who is already hired and prepared to testify on your behalf that the health care professional caused your damages by his or her breach in the standard of care.  Experts can be difficult to find and are often quite expensive.  In addition, the general costs of litigation are high.  For this and many other reasons, your damages must be very high.  Unfortunately, I do not believe that undue stress and anguish will be enough for Med Mal lawsuit.  However, if you feel the damage was significant, you should consult a local attorney in your area who practices Medical Malpractice.  They will be able to help you better understand your local and state requirements.  Best of luck! NOTE:  This response is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice.  No attorney-client relationship exists or is formed by this response. ... Read More
I'm sorry to hear about this.   Medical Malpractice cases are very difficult to prove and to win.  In order to have a successful Med... Read More

Can I sue for botched spinal surgery

Answered 12 years and 10 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
No attorney can tell you whether you have a malpractice case without looking at the records. Sometimes even then you cannot advise a client whether a case is viable without retaining an expert eo evaluate the records and the radiographic films. If nobody warned you of that potential outcome, then you have reason to be suspect that malpractice occurred, and you should conult an attorney given the stakes involved.  contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts,  ideally with experience in cases that involve your medical issue. If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Click here for my website. ... Read More
No attorney can tell you whether you have a malpractice case without looking at the records. Sometimes even then you cannot advise a client whether a... Read More

ear wax removal injury

Answered 13 years and a month ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
The issue is will be what the injury was from the care and whether it can be fixed. If so, you probably do not have a financially vaible malpractice case.  Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time consuming for lawyers to pursue, and in most circumstances attorneys will not take them on unless a patient suffered a significant permanent injury that causes substantial disability as a result of the medical mistake.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here and here for more information about me. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
The issue is will be what the injury was from the care and whether it can be fixed. If so, you probably do not have a financially vaible malpractice... Read More

My daughter had a procedure done in radiology department and they gave her the wrong medicine are we able to sue for malpractice.

Answered 13 years and a month ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Medication errors are very common. Whether an attorney will investigate a medical malpractice case as a result of a medication error caused lasting harm for the patient. Many times a patient will suffer minor harm from a medication mistake because they quickly notice something is amiss when they experience side effects from the medicine, and stop taking it and contact their health care provider, and the mistake is uncovered. If you suffer lasting harm from a medication error, and you want to investigate a medical malpractice case you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here and here for more information about me. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
Medication errors are very common. Whether an attorney will investigate a medical malpractice case as a result of a medication error caused lasting... Read More

I received 2nd degree burns while being a paitient in the hospital

Answered 13 years and 2 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
The hospital staff should not be serving soup that is so hot that it can cause second degree burns. I don't think this is a medical malpractice case as much as it is a pure neglgience case. It is reminiscint of the McDonald's coffee verdict. (Rent "hot coffee" from i-tunes).  You should contact a local personal injury attorney (one in your state).  Personal injury attorneys take  cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research personal injury attorneys. Then, visit each attorney's website and select a firm that has a record of successful verdicts. If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. Click here and here for more information about me. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
The hospital staff should not be serving soup that is so hot that it can cause second degree burns. I don't think this is a medical malpractice case... Read More

I had my pharmacy give me the wrong drug and had an adverse effect

Answered 13 years and 4 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Medication errors are very common. Whether an attorney will investigate a medical malpractice case as a result of a medication error caused lasting harm for the patient. Many times a patient will suffer minor harm from a medication mistake because they quickly notice something is amiss when they experience side effects from the medicine, and stop taking it and contact their health care provider, and the mistake is uncovered. If you suffer lasting harm from a medication error, and you want to investigate a medical malpractice case you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here and here for more information about me. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
Medication errors are very common. Whether an attorney will investigate a medical malpractice case as a result of a medication error caused lasting... Read More

would it be malpratce if something was present on a xray and you were not imformed about it?

Answered 13 years and 4 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If you were not informed of something in an x-ray, and that failure caused you harm, then you might have a viable medical malpractice case.  Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time consuming for lawyers to pursue, and in most circumstances attorneys will not take them on unless a patient suffered a significant permanent injury that causes substantial disability as a result of the medical mistake. You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here and here for more information about me. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.   ... Read More
If you were not informed of something in an x-ray, and that failure caused you harm, then you might have a viable medical malpractice... Read More

i had surgery on my wrist and the doctor left a piece of metal that i believe is half of a pin in there. could i file a lawsuit for malpractice?

Answered 13 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Often orthopedic surgery involves the insertion of pins that are supposed to remain inside of you.  It is hard to tell you whether your physician committed malpractice under the circumstances.  You should contact your orthopedic surgeon and try to find out whether the hardware was supposed to remain following the surgery.  If you discover that it was a foreign object that somebody negligently failed to remove, then you may have a malpractice case worth investigating, although if it can be removed with a simple procedure then there will still be a question about whether the case is financially viable. If you want to investigate a case further, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here and here for more information about me. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.  ... Read More
Often orthopedic surgery involves the insertion of pins that are supposed to remain inside of you.  It is hard to tell you whether your... Read More

A replacement knee that was installed wrong and had to be redone after about three years. caused me three years of misory. I have all dates and record

Answered 13 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You might have a medical malpractice case worth investigating.  Another question is whether or not you received a defective prostatic knee.  If that is the case, you may have a products liability case. If the second surgery cured all of your problems, however, there will be a question about whether either of the cases are financially viable. You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
You might have a medical malpractice case worth investigating.  Another question is whether or not you received a defective prostatic knee.... Read More

while receiving a triple fusion, the surgeon,hit, a nerve with one of the screws, this caused much pain, and another surgery.

Answered 13 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only... Read More

I had a Chiropractor who popped my wrist so hard that he pulled a tendon. I am still having problems with this. I asked the Chiropractor to help

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I do not think that you have a financially viable medical malpractice case. Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time consuming for lawyers to pursue, and in most circumstances attorneys will not take them on unless a patient suffered a significant permanent injury that causes substantial disability as a result of the medical mistake.  If you do not fully recover from the trauma caused by the chiropractor, that is a different story. If that is the case and you want to investigate a medical malpractice case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
I do not think that you have a financially viable medical malpractice case. Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time consuming for lawyers... Read More

My brother died 4 days after surg

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Obviously, with this kind of shocking and unexpected outcome there is reason to investigate a medical malpractice case.  Hospitals are required to have strict protocols in place to avoid patient falls. Beyond this, it is hard to imagine that while this was going on no alarm bells were being triggered and nobody had any cause to investigate your brothers deteriorating condition. You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
Obviously, with this kind of shocking and unexpected outcome there is reason to investigate a medical malpractice case.  Hospitals are required... Read More

after my Surgery this last Wedneday, I was returned to my room and they failed to plug my bed in. After 55 min of pleaded for help and falling down t

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It is hard to tell you if you have a case, because it is not clear what you believe was inappropriate care. Hospitals are required to have strict protocols in place to prevent patient falls, but if you were not damaged as a result, then you do not have a financially viable claim. I can't make sense out of the other issues that you discuss in your question.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
It is hard to tell you if you have a case, because it is not clear what you believe was inappropriate care. Hospitals are required to have strict... Read More

My brother had surg,died 4days later

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It sounds like you have cause to investigate a negligent surgery case.  You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
It sounds like you have cause to investigate a negligent surgery case.  You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your... Read More