Residents of New York may, at some point in their lives, require medical treatment at one of the many fine hospitals located in the state. Patients admitted to these facilities place a great amount of trust in the medical staff assigned to take care of them. Unfortunately, medical errors that occur in hospitals are still a leading cause of death in America, and those who have lost a loved one due to these errors retain the right to pursue medical malpractice claims.
According to current statistics, hospital related medical errors are considered the third leading cause of death in the country. Approximately 440,000 individuals die every year due to these medical mistakes. Sadly, further investigation into the cause of death often shows that these medical errors were easily preventable.
The New England Journal of Medicine recently published a study that claims communication among medical staff is key in reducing or preventing life-threatening medical errors. According to the study, taking the time to discuss patients at shift changes can reduce injuries by up to 30 percent. Other studies claim that 80 percent of serious medical errors are the result of miscommunication among healthcare workers.
Medical mistakes caused by errors in communication, are considered very preventable, but unfortunately, far too many Americans are still suffering injury or death as a result of this activity. New York residents who have been injured or lost a loved one as the result of a hospital related medical error can take legal action if they choose to do so. Medical malpractice claims may be filed against the hospital and any medical staff considered responsible. Successfully navigated claims can result in monetary compensation for any damages suffered, either through an out-of-court settlement or jury trial.
Source: oregonlive.com, "Hospital medical errors that harm patients, a leading cause of death, plummet in study", Lynne Terry, Nov. 5, 2014
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