What to Do If You Suspect Medical Malpractice in South Carolina
When sick, injured, or suffering from painful and worrisome symptoms, we visit our medical providers in search of relief. While some treatments and procedures may take time before making any noticeable improvements on our health, there are situations in which we leave feeling even worse than when we came in. Unfortunately, medical mistakes and errors are increasingly common, putting patient health at risk. If you suspect medical malpractice in South Carolina, it is important to be aware of your rights to compensation and the steps you need to take to support your claim.
Medical Malpractice in South Carolina: Determining Errors
While doctors, surgeons, and other medical providers continue to make medical errors and mistakes at alarming rates, it is generally difficult to show that an error occurred. Additionally, with numerous studies pointing to medical errors as being one of the leading causes of death and disability in the U.S., doctors are increasingly wary of the potential for medical malpractice lawsuits, making them more likely not to acknowledge when a medical mishap occurs. Unfortunately, it is up to patients themselves to be vigilant about the care they receive, and to be alert to the early warning signs that could indicate medical malpractice in South Carolina. Common types of medical errors to be aware of include:
- Hospital based infections
- Missed diagnosis or wrong diagnosis
- Medication errors
- Medical device malfunctions
- Surgical errors, such as performing the wrong procedure, operating on the wrong site, or performing the right procedure, but on the wrong patient
Rather than just accepting pain, infections, and worsening conditions, patients should question these experiences and why they are occurring.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
Actions to Take After Medical Malpractice in South Carolina
Under Section 15-3-545 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, patients generally have up to three years to file a medical malpractice lawsuit in South Carolina. This time period begins after a medical mistake was made or after it was discovered. If you suspect that you have been a victim of medical malpractice in South Carolina, it is important to take the following steps:
- Make note of the names of all the doctors, hospital support staff, and technicians involved in your care
- Identify every interaction you had with your doctor, including any procedures, testing, or office visits
- Request copies of your medical records
- Keep your own records regarding prescribed medications
- Get a second opinion and additional testing from providers not affiliated in any way with your current doctor or hospital
- Keep a tally of the expenses you incurred and the impacts you suffered, such as lost wages or having to miss important family functions
Get Help From a South Carolina Medical Malpractice Attorney
If you or someone you care about has been the victim of medical malpractice, contact our experienced South Carolina medical malpractice attorneys today. At Anastopoulo Law Firm we can advise you on how to hold responsible parties accountable for the injuries you have suffered, and assist you in getting the compensation you need to recover.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
