Top Reasons Doctors Get Sued

A study was recently released containing the top reasons that doctors were sued, and what impact that had on their practices. The survey showed that over half (59 percent) of doctors had been named in at least one malpractice lawsuit. The doctors most likely to be sued include ob/gyns, surgeons, orthopedists, radiologists, and anesthesiologists.

By far, the two most common reasons doctors were sued were a failure to diagnose and the patient suffered abnormal injuries. Some other common reasons doctors were sued included a failure to properly treat, poor documentation of patient instruction, errors in medication administration, a failure to follow safety procedures, and a lack of informed consent. The nature of the lawsuits included injuries or death during surgery, a postoperative infection, late or misdiagnosis of cancer, birth defects or fetal death, medication errors, in-hospital infections, and falls in a hospital room.

The study also showed that most doctors were shocked when they were sued. About 70 percent reported that they did not expect a lawsuit. About a quarter suspected there may be a lawsuit. The majority of malpractice cases was either settled by trial or was voluntarily dismissed before trial.

Fortunately, the vast majority of doctors are skilled and knowledgeable about their medical specialty. However, there are doctors who should not be practicing and who can cause their patients a great deal of harm. If you feel that you have been harmed by a negligent doctor, call a Houston medical malpractice attorney.