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4 Steps to Take If You Were a Victim of Medical Malpractice

If you received substandard care from a physician, pharmacist, nurse, or another medical professional, you may have the right to hold the provider or facility financially accountable for your damages. Here are 4 steps to take if you were a victim of medical malpractice.

It is important to remember that time is of the essence in any medical malpractice claim.  If you wait too long to consult an attorney and initiate the proceedings, critical evidence may be altered, destroyed, or become unavailable. In this blog, we’ll discuss a few steps you should take immediately if you or someone you love was a victim of medical negligence.

The smartest step you can take after discovering the injury is to contact a personal injury lawyer. A seasoned attorney can help you avoid critical mistakes early in the proceedings that could hurt your chances of recovering fair compensation.

To discuss your case with a medical malpractice lawyer in Missouri , contact Gump & Faiella. Our attorneys have more than 90 years of combined experience in legal practice. Call 800-264-3455 for a free initial consultation.

Read on to learn four steps to take after discovering that you or someone close to you was a victim of medical negligence:

  1. Start a Journal  

Write down everything you remember about the care you received as soon as possible. The more time that passes, the harder it will be to remember the facts surrounding the incident.

After recording everything you can remember, use the journal to record details about how your injuries are affecting your life. Describe any pain and inconveniences, and take note of any hobbies and other activities you are no longer able to enjoy due to the injury.

  1. Photograph Visible Wounds

If the provider’s negligence resulted in bruising, lacerations, incisions, or scarring, photograph the progression of these wounds every day. If you’re enduring any psychological trauma, write about it in your journal.  

  1. Gather Medical Records  

Unfortunately, some healthcare providers are not above altering or even destroying a patient’s medical records to eliminate evidence of liability. As a result, you should request copies of your records as soon as you suspect a doctor was negligent, but do not tell anyone at the facility why you are requesting them. You have the right to obtain copies of your own medical records and diagnostic images without providing a reason. If any evidence is being withheld from you, contact an attorney immediately.  

  1. Track Your Damages  

Save all paperwork and receipts for any costs you incur as a result of your injuries. Examples include pharmacy receipts, hospital bills, and income statements detailing missed work.

Call 800-264-3455 to Speak with a Medical Malpractice Attorney in Missouri  

If you want to file a medical malpractice claim after receiving substandard care, turn to Gump & Faiella. We have recovered more than $250 million for our valued clients in successful settlements and verdicts.

We represent victims of personal injury and wrongful death in Moberly, Columbia, and throughout Missouri. Call 800-264-3455 or send us a message using our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation.

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