According to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) data, 2011 had the lowest amount of reported medical malpractice lawsuits since 1991. This information on the surface suggests that medical practice has improved, thus leading to fewer claims. Both consumer advocate groups and tort reform groups, usually on opposing sides, agree that the numbers are misleading. Why Are The Numbers Lower? Although it would be wonderful to think that these claims are lower due to increased health care standards, there are other reasons these numbers have decreased. Although no one can say for sure, there are a few theories on the reasons. Less claims being filed. Due to litigation restrictions, it is thought that many malpractice claims are being dismissed or not filed at all. This means that victims of medical malpractice are paying for their own health care and treatments that were caused by physician errors. Claims not reported. It… Continue Reading
Tag Archives: medical negligence
Parents Settle Medical Malpractice Lawsuit Where Child Suffers Brain Injury At Birth
Posted in Birth Injuries, Cerebral Palsy, Medical MalpracticeThe Bayonne Medical Center (New Jersey) settled a medical malpractice case with the family of a severely brain-damaged son for $8.5 million. The mother, Emily Ordonez, was 32 years old when she went into labor on August 14, 2005. Ms. Ordonez went to the hospital at 1:30 am, when she first experienced labor pains. The prenatal tests indicated a healthy baby and pregnancy. However, at 9:32 am, the heart monitor indicated that the baby’s heart rate dropped from 140 beats/minute to only 60 beats/minute. The delivery room nurses waited half an hour before calling the attending obstetrician, who arrived 22 minutes later. Then, the doctor waited until 10:55 am to start the emergency cesarean section, despite the baby’s low heart rate. The reason for the low heart rate was that the umbilical cord was compressed, which resulted in the baby not receiving adequate oxygen. (See Child Injury Laws… Continue Reading