New York City Pediatric Malpractice Lawyer
When your child is sick or hurt, you take them to the pediatrician, trusting that they will receive the quality care they need to recover. While this happens in the majority of cases, there are instances when pediatricians make mistakes and children suffer further harm as a result. There are more than 400 pediatric malpractice cases filed every year in the United States, according to the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatricians.
If your child has been hurt by the negligent actions of their doctor, your family may be eligible for compensation for your losses. Our New York City pediatric malpractice lawyer can help you obtain the fair damages you deserve.
What is Pediatric Malpractice?
Pediatricians have a legal duty to care for children according to the accepted standard of care. The standard of care is the generally accepted proper treatment for illnesses according to medical experts. When pediatricians do not meet this standard, children can suffer serious injuries including a traumatic brain injury or death. Pediatricians who have not provided the standard of care may have committed malpractice.
Types of Pediatric Malpractice
Any time a pediatrician is negligent and a child becomes hurt as a result, it can be considered malpractice. However, there are some types of malpractice that are more common than others. These include:
- Meningitis: The most common form of malpractice, meningitis is difficult to diagnose. Children may be born with meningitis and as the disease advances, the child’s health worsens. The damage from meningitis can become irreversible in a very short amount of time.
- Appendicitis: Appendicitis is also commonly misdiagnosed in children, especially girls. Female patients are often diagnosed with a urinary tract infection or a pelvic inflammatory disease. If the condition is not treated quickly, the damage may also be irreversible.
- Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a common issue that affects babies’ hip joints. In most cases, it is diagnosed and treated within the first six months, without the need for surgery. When it is diagnosed after six months, however, surgery may be necessary.
- Medication errors: Children are injured by medication errors in a number of ways. A pediatrician may order the wrong medication for a certain illness. A pediatrician may also administer the wrong dose of a drug, or there may not be adequate communication between the pediatrician and the pharmacy. Medication errors can result in children becoming very sick, while also not receiving the proper treatment for the condition they are suffering from.
Our Pediatric Malpractice Lawyer in New York City Can Help Your Family
If your child has suffered injuries due to pediatric malpractice, you may be able to claim compensation for the additional medical expenses to treat it, your child’s pain and suffering, and more. At Michael Gunzburg, P.C., our New York City pediatric malpractice lawyer can accurately value your claim and negotiate a full settlement that will cover your family’s losses. Call us now at 212-725-8500 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more.
