Baltimore Medical Malpractice: Do I Have a Case?

Understanding whether you have a medical malpractice case in Baltimore can be complex. Here's a simple guide to help you navigate the basics of medical malpractice, focusing on examples such as misdiagnosis, surgical errors, and birth injuries.

What Qualifies as Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider deviates from the standard of care, resulting in injury or harm to the patient. This can manifest in various forms, including:

• Misdiagnosis: This occurs when a medical professional incorrectly diagnoses a patient, leading to improper treatment or delayed care. An example might be mistaking a heart attack for indigestion, which delays lifesaving treatment.
• Surgical Errors: These can include operating on the wrong body part, leaving surgical instruments inside the body, or providing inadequate post-operative care.
• Birth Injuries: These are injuries sustained by a newborn, such as cerebral palsy due to oxygen deprivation, often caused by negligence during delivery.

Maryland’s Certificate of Qualified Expert

In Maryland, filing a medical malpractice lawsuit requires a Certificate of Qualified Expert. This document, provided by a medical professional, confirms that your claim has merit. It must be filed within 90 days of the lawsuit’s initiation, supporting your right to bring the case to court.

Filing Deadlines

Time is of the essence in medical malpractice cases. In Maryland, you generally have five years from the date of the incident or three years from discovering the injury to file a claim, whichever comes first. Missing these deadlines can bar you from seeking compensation.

For more detailed assistance, consider reaching out to a medical malpractice attorney in Baltimore who can guide you through the specifics of your situation and ensure all legal protocols are followed.

If you believe you've been a victim of medical malpractice, it's crucial to act swiftly to secure your rights and seek the justice you deserve.