Placing your trust in healthcare professionals is fundamental to good health. Unfortunately, medical errors can have devastating consequences. In New South Wales, patients have the right to expect a certain standard of care. When this standard is breached, resulting in harm, it’s known as negligence.
What is medical negligence?
Negligence occurs when a healthcare provider fails to exercise the degree of care that a reasonably prudent professional would under similar circumstances. This can involve:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis: Incorrect or delayed identification of a medical condition, leading to worsened health outcomes.
- Surgical errors: Mistakes made during surgery, such as operating on the wrong body part or leaving surgical instruments behind.
- Medication errors: Administering the wrong medication, incorrect dosage, or failing to consider drug interactions.
- Birth injuries: Harm to a baby caused by negligence during childbirth.
Beyond these common types, negligence can manifest in various forms, including failure to obtain informed consent, inadequate aftercare, and breaches in patient confidentiality.
What to do if you suspect medical negligence
If you believe you’ve been a victim of negligence, it’s essential to take swift action.
- Seek additional medical attention: Prioritise your health and well-being.
- Gather evidence: Collect medical records, test results, and any correspondence related to your treatment.
- Consult a lawyer: An experienced medical negligence lawyer can assess your case, explain your legal options, and guide you through the claims process.
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NOTICE: This article is accurate at the time of publication and does not constitute legal advice. Please see our legal notices page for more information.
