Common Types of Medical Malpractice in Indiana: Misdiagnosis, Surgical Errors, and More

Misdiagnosis and Delayed Diagnosis

One of the most common and dangerous forms of medical malpractice is the failure to properly diagnose a patient's condition. Studies indicate that approximately 12 million Americans are affected by diagnostic errors each year, with roughly 40,000 to 80,000 deaths annually as a result. Missed, delayed, or incorrect diagnoses can prevent patients from receiving timely, appropriate treatment, often allowing underlying conditions to worsen.

For example, a patient who presents with symptoms of a heart attack may be misdiagnosed with acid reflux, only to suffer a fatal cardiac event days or weeks later. Or a cancer patient's tumor may go undetected for months, drastically reducing their chances of successful treatment and survival. These types of diagnosis failures can have severe consequences.

Surgical Errors and Complications

Surgical procedures carry inherent risks, but the results can be catastrophic when healthcare providers make preventable mistakes. Common surgical errors include operating on the wrong body part, leaving surgical instruments or sponges inside the patient, and anesthesia mistakes leading to brain damage or death.

One high-profile case in Indiana involved a patient who underwent foot surgery, only to have the wrong foot amputated due to a mix-up. Incidents like this, while rare, highlight the critical importance of clear communication, proper surgical planning, and rigorous safety protocols in the operating room.

Medication Errors

Mistakes made in prescribing, dispensing, or administering medication are another leading cause of medical malpractice claims. These errors can result in overdoses, adverse drug interactions, or the patient receiving the wrong medication entirely. According to the FDA, medication errors affect an estimated 1.3 million people every year in the United States.

The consequences of these mistakes can range from mild side effects to life-threatening complications and even death. Patients who are prescribed the wrong medication or given an improper dosage may suffer organ damage, respiratory failure, or other severe health issues.

Seeking Justice and Compensation

For Indiana residents who have been harmed by medical negligence, seeking justice and fair compensation is crucial. An experienced medical malpractice attorney can help navigate the complex legal process, build a strong case, and ensure that victims and their families receive the maximum allowable damages.

At CCHA Law, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial burdens that these incidents can place on individuals and families, and we are committed to fighting tirelessly on your behalf.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice in Indiana, don't hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation. We'll review the details of your case, advise you on your legal options, and work to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.