Thousands Complain about Medical Malpractice Each Year in Louisiana

Each year, a multitude of patients in the United States complain about their medical treatment, and as a result, medical malpractice has become a familiar term across the country. Large, multimillion-dollar cases tend to capture the spotlight, but each year, many smaller claims go unnoticed. The same is true in the state of Louisiana, where a significant number of patients file medical malpractice claims every year.

Contacting a Medical Malpractice Lawyer

If you believe you have been the victim of medical malpractice, an experienced New Orleans medical malpractice lawyer may be able to help. As the victim of a negligent doctor, you may be entitled to compensation for your trauma, as well as any additional medical expenses.

The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm is an established and respected Louisiana Firm specializing in medical malpractice. David A. Bowling has more than 30 years of trial experience, and he can use his expertise to your advantage when investigating your case. Call us today at (504) 586-5200 to schedule an appointment, and read on for more information regarding malpractice suits in Louisiana:

Patients File Thousands of Complaints Each Year

According to , approximately 1,600 people in Louisiana approach medical review panels to consider their medical malpractice complaints annually. When you consider that there are currently about 23,000 doctors and healthcare providers who are entitled to medical review panels, it means 7 percent of medical professionals in the state of Louisiana face complaints every year. Despite the high number of complaints, many do not reach the courts, and experts suggest this is because of the current medical review panel system.

Louisiana Medical Review Panels

Louisiana state law requires that a medical review panel examine malpractice claims before a patient can file a case in court, according to Louisiana State Legislature. Expert physicians and doctors who specialize in the medicine involved staff these panels, and their role is to determine whether the patient’s claims have merit.

The panel will make a decision on the matter, but it is not binding. The court may use their findings if the case goes to trial, but these panels have not supported a significant portion of complainants historically.

According to NOLA, the panel agreed with less than 10 percent of the claims in the last 15 years. Many believe there is a conflict of interest on the panels and that the payment structure is problematic. Physicians receive upwards of $300 for serving on the panel.

If you are suffering after a medical procedure, an experienced New Orleans medical malpractice attorney may be able to defend your rights and help you file a claim for compensation. Because the process can be complicated, it is beneficial to have experts on your side.

At The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm, we have extensive trial experience, and we are an AV-rated Firm under Martindale-Hubbell’s peer review rating system. Call us today at (504) 586-5200 so we can assess your case to determine if you may be entitled to compensation.