Research Shows Cardiology Malpractice Lawsuits are Climbing

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Baltimore Medical Malpractice Lawyers disucss an increase in cardiology lawsuits. Over the past 10 years, there has been a steady increase in the number of medical malpractice lawsuits, particularly among cardiologists. In an article published in the American Journal of Cardiology, researchers found that there were over 1,500 liability claims filed by patients between 2006 and 2015. The survey was conducted to analyze malpractice trends and identify the causes of patient injuries. According to the authors of the study, the increase in defensive medicine is having a particularly negative impact on the quality of healthcare in this country.

Defensive medicine occurs when physicians are more concerned about avoiding liability suits than providing quality care. The authors of the study suggest that this has a direct influence on the rising cost of malpractice payments that average physicians are forced to pay in recent years. This is in line with the national trend of increasing healthcare costs. According to one of the authors, by focusing our attention on the litigation trends in the field of cardiology, it will help us better understand the current tort patterns. If we have a better understanding of the liability claims and the types of patient injuries, cardiologists can avoid malpractice risks and provide improved patient care.

Leading Malpractice Trends

Based on the information obtained from a database comprised of more than 350,000 medical malpractice cases, the authors found that the number of cardiology claims increased by 91 percent during the study period. The top malpractice allegations were for improper medical treatment and diagnostic errors. Other trends included miscommunication, equipment malfunction, and safety and monitoring issues. Close to 70 percent of the claims were decreased, denied, or dismissed, while over 30 percent of the remaining claims were settled out of court.

The benefit of this research, according to the study authors, is that it can help physicians lower their risk of liability, as well as improve safety reform in hospitals and other healthcare facilities where patients are treated. The research can also be used as a springboard for discussions about defensive medicine and the rising costs of healthcare in this country.

According to physician-owned insurer, The Doctors Company, the following are the top reasons why cardiologists are sued for medical malpractice:

  • Failure to make an accurate diagnosis, making an incorrect diagnosis, or delaying a diagnosis
  • Improper management of treatment
  • Complications during treatment or during a procedure
  • Mistake during surgery
  • Prescribing the wrong medication

Cardiologists are human and can make mistakes. However, if the mistake puts the patient at risk, he or she may pursue a malpractice lawsuit. A skilled, experienced medical malpractice lawyer can protect your rights and recommend the best legal course of action.

Baltimore Medical Malpractice Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Advocate for Victims of Medical Negligence

If you have been injured while under the care of a cardiologist, or any other medical professional, do not hesitate to contact the Baltimore medical malpractice lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. We have a proven track record of reaching successful settlements for our clients. Our experienced legal team will work tirelessly to obtain the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent medical malpractice victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.