Regardless of why you are in the hospital, you have the right to expect a certain standard of care from your doctors, nurses and other providers. If you are there for the birth of a child, it is critical that every person involved with this process strive to ensure your safety and the well-being of your baby. In any hospital, cleanliness, reduction of infections and prevention of medical errors should be a priority for everyone.
It is in your interests to understand what you should expect regarding your care while you are in the hospital. Lack of quality care or some type of mistake could result in injury to you and your baby. If you suspect that your suffering is the result of any type of medical negligence or malpractice, there are legal options available to you by which you can seek recovery of your financial losses and other damages you experienced.
A poor record of safety
Most hospitals strive for safety and have measures in place intended to protect the interests of their patients. However, this is not the case for every medical facility and with every care provider. Even one mistake with patient care can result in an extension of necessary recovery time, increase in pain, infection and other complications. Poor hospital safety practices lead to patient harm, as seen in the following statements:
- Approximately 200,000 people die each year in accidents involving medical mistakes, hospital errors or some type of malpractice.
- One out of every 25 patients admitted to the hospital develop some type of infection.
- A Medicare patient has an even higher chance of suffering harm while in the hospital as one in four of them have a chance of injury or other preventable issue.
If you experience a negative event in the hospital, you do not have to remain silent. You could be the victim of some type of medical malpractice, and you could have grounds for legal action.
The rights of victims
The Oregon civil justice system provides victims of medical malpractice the opportunity to seek financial recovery through a civil claim. If you suffered while in the hospital for the birth of your child, or your baby suffered due to medical negligence, you may have a case. An assessment of your situation will help you understand the specific legal options that are available to you.