Having the right insurance is essential for any physician, mid-level provider, or hospital administrator — it helps safeguard professional assets and income should their institution face an unexpected legal claim.

What is Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice is the legal term for when a healthcare provider causes harm or injury to a patient through negligence or improper medical treatment. Medical malpractice can have a severe impact on a patient's physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Medical malpractice claims are common, and healthcare providers need to have a comprehensive understanding of the reasons behind these claims to avoid being included in them.

Why Doctors Need Medical Protective Insurance

Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis

Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis is a significant cause of medical malpractice lawsuits against medical professionals. In cases where the patient's life or well-being is at stake, a medical provider's failure to diagnose or misdiagnosis of a disease, illness, or injury can have severe consequences. Healthcare providers must follow the standard of care when diagnosing and treating patients to avoid such situations.

Surgical errors

Surgical errors are among the most common causes of medical malpractice lawsuits. A surgeon's failure to perform the correct surgery, mistakes during surgery, or damage to organs or tissue during an operation can cause significant harm to the patient. In some severe cases, surgical errors can result in permanent disabilities or even death.

Medication errors

Errors pertaining to medication are another leading cause of medical malpractice lawsuits against doctors. Medication errors can occur in various ways, such as incorrect dosage, wrong medication, and incorrect administration. A healthcare provider's failure to check for allergies, medical history, or medication contraindications can result in severe consequences and liability.

Birth injuries

Among the most traumatic experience that a family can endure is birth injury. A healthcare provider's failure to identify or correctly manage fetal distress, improper use of delivery instruments, or lack of attention to the fetus's needs can cause permanent damage or even death to the newborn.

Failure to obtain informed consent

A healthcare provider's failure to obtain informed consent from patients before a procedure or treatment can result in a medical malpractice lawsuit. Informed consent is a legal and ethical standard requiring a healthcare provider to explain the benefits, risks, and potential complications of a particular medical procedure or treatment to the patient. In turn, the patient must signify that they understand and agree to the procedure and information provided.

Trust the Experts for Medical Protective Insurance

Medical malpractice lawsuits can significantly affect healthcare providers and patients alike. Each year, hundreds of thousands of patients in the United States suffer from medical malpractice injuries, leading to billions of dollars in lawsuits. Healthcare providers must strive to provide the best care possible, follow the standard of care, and communicate with their patients to avoid these life-changing situations. With proper diligence, knowledge, and robust medical protective insurance, healthcare providers can reduce their exposure to legal action and limit the fallout from malpractice claims.

Trust Ashton Benefits for the medical protection your business needs. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to answer any questions you may have about medical protect plans and how they work. From customizable plans to multiple payment options, there’s a lot to love about what Ashton Benefits has to offer. Contact us today and learn more about how we can help your practice with the coverage you need at a price you can afford.