What Doctors Can Expect When Facing a Medical Malpractice Claim

Medical malpractice is widespread in the United States. According to Forbes, medical boards across the country paid out more than $3 billion on malpractice claims in 2012.

As a victim of medical malpractice, it is common to feel a range of emotions. Many patients are angry that the doctor caused them additional pain and suffering, and the legal process following it can be an overwhelming and emotionally draining one.

Regardless of the circumstances, it is important not to file a malpractice claim in sheer anger or to get revenge on a doctor, but rather to reach some closure and financial compensation for any ongoing pain resulting from poor medical care. If you are considering pursuing a malpractice claim in Louisiana, an experienced New Orleans medical malpractice lawyer may be able to provide some clarity and guide you through the process.

If you have been the victim of medical malpractice, you may be entitled to compensation, but you will need to file your claim in the correct manner and with a compelling case. At The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm, we have more than 30 years of trial experience, and we can assess your case to determine if you may be eligible for compensation. Call us today at (504) 586-5200 to schedule an appointment.

A common question regarding medical malpractice claims pertains to the consequences for the doctor:

What happens to the doctor after a malpractice claim?

Most people file malpractice claims in order to get compensation for their pain and suffering and not necessarily to end the doctor’s career. According to Nola.com, only three doctors in Louisiana lost their medical licenses during 2013 due to malpractice claims.

The figure is equally low over the last 10 years with only 27 doctors losing their licenses. According to the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners, the reason so few doctors lose their licenses is because malpractice does not necessarily mean a doctor is incompetent.

Disciplinary Action

Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners disciplines certain health care providers. They primarily focus on those who are repeat offenders or who have faced multiple settlements or judgments.

Many disciplinary cases do not stem from lawsuits but rather directly from patients reporting conduct that they considered questionable. Of the more than 1,700 cases that the board investigated, they only considered approximately 25 percent of them to be serious enough to warrant disciplinary action.

Regardless of the nature or severity of your malpractice case, it may be beneficial to contact a New Orleans medical malpractice attorney for advice. An experienced lawyer may be able to recover costs associated with medical expenses, and you can use the funds to recover from the effects of negligent care.

The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm is an AV-rated legal practice under Martindale-Hubbell’s peer review rating system, and we have extensive malpractice claim experience. Call us at (504) 586-5200 to schedule an appointment with a qualified lawyer today.