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Types of Medical Malpractice In New York

Medical malpractice happens when a healthcare provider in New York fails to meet the accepted standard of care, and that failure results in injury, illness, or death. These cases involve doctors, nurses, hospitals, and other licensed medical professionals. Here are the most common types that occur.

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis

One of the most frequent forms of malpractice is misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. If a doctor fails to diagnose a serious condition like cancer, heart disease, or stroke, the delay can lead to permanent damage or death. Patients may receive the wrong treatment or no treatment at all, worsening their condition.

Surgical Errors

Surgical mistakes can happen during or after an operation. Common errors include operating on the wrong body part, leaving surgical instruments inside the patient, and causing unintended damage to organs or tissues. Infections from poor surgical technique or failure to monitor the patient post-surgery also fall under this category.

Birth Injuries

Birth injuries often result from negligence during labor and delivery. These may include failure to perform a timely C-section, improper use of forceps or vacuum extractors, or failure to monitor the fetus for signs of distress. Birth injuries can cause permanent disabilities like cerebral palsy or brachial plexus injuries.

Medication Errors

Doctors, nurses, and pharmacists can all be responsible for medication errors. This includes prescribing the wrong drug, giving an incorrect dosage, or failing to check for harmful drug interactions. These errors can lead to allergic reactions, overdose, or long-term complications.

Anesthesia Errors

Anesthesia malpractice occurs when an anesthesiologist administers too much, too little, or fails to monitor the patient properly. Mistakes can result in brain damage, oxygen deprivation, cardiac arrest, or death. Even brief lapses in oxygen levels can lead to permanent injuries.

Failure to Treat

In some cases, a correct diagnosis is made, but the provider fails to deliver proper treatment. This includes premature discharge from the hospital, lack of follow-up care, or ignoring test results. Failure to treat can allow a manageable condition to become life-threatening.

Emergency Room Negligence

The fast-paced nature of emergency rooms can lead to critical mistakes. Delays in care, failure to recognize serious conditions, or discharging a patient too early are common errors that may qualify as malpractice.

How a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Can Help Me

Medical malpractice cases in New York are complex and require detailed investigation, expert testimony, and strict adherence to legal procedures. An experienced medical malpractice lawyer can:

  • Evaluate your case and determine if malpractice occurred
  • Gather and review medical records and expert opinions
  • Identify all liable parties—doctors, hospitals, or specialists
  • Ensure you file a claim within New York’s statute of limitations
  • Negotiate with insurers or represent you in court

A lawyer will fight for the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care.

Contact Us Today

If you suspect you were injured or became ill due to medical negligence, contact Fiedler Deutsch, LLP. Our White Plains Medical Malpractice Lawyer and Westchester County medical malpractice lawyer is ready to help you hold the wrongful parties accountable. Call (914) 993-0393 or message us online today to schedule your free consultation.