Determining The Negligent Parties For Medical Harm
When you hear the term “medical malpractice,” suing doctors for misconduct or negligence may first come to mind. However, many other medical professionals besides doctors can be held responsible for causing harm to a patient. Here are some examples.
Hospitals
Hospitals could be named in a medical malpractice lawsuit if the harm was caused by a doctor or medical professional they employ. This is legally referred to as “vicarious liability.” Vicarious liability means that an entity can be held liable for the negligence of another party which includes doctors, nurses, physicians assistants, and other healthcare professionals. Since hospitals employ many types of medical professionals, when hiring medical staff, it’s crucial to have conducted the proper steps to ensure that all medical professionals employed have the proper licensing and training needed to give patients the medical standard of care.
A hospital can be held liable for its own negligence in cases in which it did not correctly investigate a medical professional’s credentials or allowing a physician to practice under their entity to which they know or should have known was not competent to treat patients.
Other Healthcare Providers
Besides hospitals, defendants in a medical malpractice claim may include urgent care facilities, medical groups, as well as the following medical professionals:
- Nurses
- Attending physicians
- Radiologists
- Pathologists
- Anesthesiologists
- Obstetricians/gynecologists
- Surgeons
- Psychologists
- Neurologists
Pharmaceutical Manufacturers
If a drug is given to patients and causes them harm, the drug manufacturer could be held liable. However, if the manufacturer warned physicians of the drug’s potential side effects or possible dangers, they would typically not be held responsible for a patient’s injury. For more information about pharmaceutical-related medical malpractice, speak to an experienced medical malpractice attorney about your potential case.
Need Help With A Medical Malpractice Claim? We Are Here For You.
If you or your loved one suffered injuries or had a condition worsen due to medical negligence, our experienced medical malpractice lawyers are here to give you the guidance you deserve when going through a difficult time. When you have questions about your legal options, we have the answers you need. Know that you are not alone, and we will fight to protect your rights.
You may be entitled to financial compensation for your losses; if so, our team can help you work to recover the maximum compensation you are owed.
To schedule a consultation with an attorney at Grewal Law PLLC, call (888) 211-5798 today.