In New York and elsewhere, the time leading up to a surgical procedure is usually stressful. Regardless of the reason for surgery, there will always be risks of failure and anxiety about the consequences of failure or errors. Patients who are scheduled to undergo surgery are advised to ask some pertinent questions — not only to be prepared but also to protect their rights in the event of surgical errors, negligence or another type of medical malpractice.
After carefully choosing a surgeon, the patient will be entitled to know exactly what to expect and what the procedure will entail. A patient could even take a friend or family member along to take notes or even record the conversation with the doctor. Before the surgical procedure occurs, the patient must sign a form of consent, and it is crucial to understand what permissions are being granted. If it turns out that a different procedure was performed that what was authorized, there might be grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit.
It is also crucial for the patient to be informed about the risks and potential complications. This will help to prepare the patient for the aftermath of the surgery, and it could also give him or her a good idea about improperly performed surgery if there are unmentioned complications. The third matter to discuss in detail involves the costs of the operation and related services. Even if it is estimated costs, it could prepare a patient for out-of-pocket expenses, and also make it easier to spot incorrect charges.
Medical staff who knows that a patient asked the necessary questions to be fully informed might take extra care to ensure nothing goes wrong. However, any patient in New York who is suffering the consequences of surgical errors or medical negligence can discuss the matter with an experienced medical malpractice attorney. A lawyer can assess the viability of a claim, and if sufficient grounds exist, the lawyer can advocate for the client throughout ensuing legal proceedings in pursuit of damage recovery.
