How can I recoup expenses from botched surgery?
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How can I recoup expenses from botched surgery?
During a hysterectomy the doctor cut the bladder from top to bottom which led to 2 other surgeries and 12 days in the hospital (6 days in the trauma unit). I accumulated a large hospital bill. Is doctor liable for theseexpenses? Should I speak with a medical malpractice attorney? In Florence County, SC.
Asked on June 30, 2011 under Malpractice Law, South Carolina
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
You should definitely consult with a medical malpractice attorney. When a doctor (or hospital or other medical care provider) injures a patient through some mistake, the care provider may be liable for any medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering thereby resulting. Whether they are liable will depend upon whether there was any negligence--i.e. on whether the care provider was in some way careless. Cutting the wrong organ during a fairly routine surgical procedure, would seem like it could easily be medical malpractice or carelessness. It would be well worth your while to consult wiht a medical malpractice attorney, who can evaluate the specifics of your situation and advise you as to the strength of your case, what it might be worth, and what it might cost to pursue (many of these attorneys will work on contingency, by the way--they are only paid if you win the case).
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