When, in any given city, there are dozens (if not hundreds) of doctors to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one to trust. Most people turn to family or friends for help. Others peruse online reviews and forums. Unfortunately, both methods can put unsuspecting people at risk for serious illness and medical malpractice injury. A recent study provides valuable information how to choose the right doctor and why it matters so much.
Dangerous Doctors and the Damage They Do
Unbeknownst to the general public, there are doctors who are allowed to continue practicing despite major and sometimes deadly mistakes. Intoxication on the job, removing the wrong body parts during surgery, and physical or sexual abuse are just some of their infractions. Some may be reprimanded through probation or a temporary suspension of their medical license, but after their disciplinary period, many are permitted to return to regular practice. Their patients – who are unable to look up this information because of “privacy rights” – are none the wiser.
Benefits of Choosing the Right Primary Care Doctor
Dangerous doctors may be able to do some serious damage, but good doctors can actually reduce the risk of illness. In fact, research shows that patients who have caring, attentive doctors are less likely to die of cancer, stroke, or heart disease. They are also less likely to visit the emergency room or be admitted to a hospital. In short, these patients are more likely to have overall better health throughout the span of their lifetime.
Even better are primary care doctors who are part of a good practice. These practices, who have a culture of positive patient care, offer extended hours and make themselves more available to their patients, which cuts back on visits to the emergency room. They spend more time with their patients and effectively communicate, which cuts back on issues of overtreatment, over-testing, and overpaying for medical care. Many even perform relatively minor procedures within a practice, which reduces the number of doctors and specialists seen – but even when the need for a specialist does arise, a good practice is selective and chooses those who are like-minded in the way they treat their patients.
Are You a Medical Malpractice Victim? You May Be Due Compensation
If you or one of your loved ones has suffered from a serious injury, unnecessary illness, or wrongful death because of medical malpractice or poor patient care, you may be due compensation. Unfortunately, this area of the law is extremely complex, and those who represent doctors often attempt to minimize or completely dismiss the damage that has been done. As such, victims are discouraged from trying to pursue malpractice claims alone.
At Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C. we fight for the rights and best interest of victims by providing them with aggressive representation. Committed to advocacy, honesty, and justice, we work hard to ensure our clients receive the best possible compensation for their injuries. To find out how we can help with your case, contact our Chicago, Illinois medical malpractice attorneys. Call 312-553-4900 and schedule your free initial consultation today.
