We all like to think that we can trust doctors’ judgment, and most of the time, you can. But even though they are skilled professionals with years of training, they are only human, and they can make mistakes. In some cases, doctors might get things wrong purely by accident, or it could be due to negligence. Unfortunately, when people find themselves in this situation, they don’t know how to react. Many of us don’t feel like we can dispute a doctor’s decisions or advice, even if we don’t feel comfortable. But remember, it’s your health on the line, so you have to take action if you think that something isn’t right. Here’s what you can do if you think that your doctor has made a mistake.
Ask For A Second Opinion
Getting a second opinion is the first step if you don’t agree with your current doctor. In some cases, it just takes another person to explain it and confirm what the first doctor said to put your mind at ease. Sometimes, the second doctor may have a completely different opinion, and they can pick up on mistakes that have been made. Don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion. If there is something wrong, another doctor can also help you gather evidence if you decide to take things further.
Keep Good Records
You may need to take further action against the doctor if a serious mistake has been made and your health is at risk. In this instance, you need evidence. Make sure that you keep good records from the beginning. Get copies of any medical notes and if you have injuries, take regular photographs to track progress. The quality of the notes you keep can make a huge difference in whether you win your claim or not.
Seek Legal Advice
At this point, you need some professional advice. Find somebody that specializes in medical malpractice cases, like RB Law services, and get their opinion. They can tell you whether you have a case and what kind of evidence you need. They will advise you on how to deal with the hospital so you don’t make any mistakes that could hurt your chances of a favorable settlement. During the initial consultations, they will also talk to you about what you hope to gain from pursuing the case.
Make A Formal Complaint
Finally, you should make a formal complaint against the hospital and the doctor. If you feel that they put your health at risk, you’re entitled to an acknowledgment of that. You also want to stop anybody else from going through the same thing. You will have to find out who the hospital’s accrediting body is and address your complaint to them. They will then come back to you and let you know how they plan to resolve it. If you are unhappy with the resolution, your lawyers can advise you on how to move forward.
You can’t just stay silent when your health is at risk. If a doctor has made an error, don’t be afraid to speak up.
