According to data analyzed by Diederich Healthcare, the state of New York has the highest number of medical malpractice payments in the United States. Despite this, there are signs that patient care in New York City may be improving.
WNYC reports that malpractice claims in the city have dropped by 28 percent in the last decade.
However, there were four acute care facilities that experienced increases in these types of claims in 2011:
- Bellevue;
- North Central Bronx;
- Queens; and
- Woodhull.
King’s County in Brooklyn had the highest number of claims (38), but that number was down from 49 claims in 2010.
2012 Medical Malpractice Statistics
The following states represented slightly more than half of the medical malpractice payouts in 2012:
- New York – $677,866,050;
- Pennsylvania – $319,719,250;
- Illinois – $242,108,800;
- New Jersey – $221,170,750;
- Florida – $218,123, 050; and
- California – $215,519,200.
Patients 40 to 59 years of age accounted for 36 percent of patients receiving payouts. Women, meanwhile, accounted for more than half of all payouts (58 percent).
Common Types of Medical Malpractice
Malpractice can occur in an emergency situation, during surgery, at the dentist, giving birth and in a number of other scenarios. The settings vary from hospitals and clinics to doctor’s offices and other types of medical facilities.
No matter what the circumstances, one of the more common forms of malpractice relates to the diagnosing of a condition. The diagnosis could be delayed, misdiagnosed, or simply failed to be diagnosed.
Another common type of medical malpractice stems from surgical mistakes. This can include operating on the wrong patient or site. Or an error can arise from accidentally puncturing or cutting an organ, vessel or artery. Leaving a surgical tool inside a patient is yet another example.
Legal Help for a Case of Medical Malpractice
Consulting with a lawyer at Gacovino, Lake & Associates in New York can help you better understand your legal rights. Call us at 800-246-4878. We will take the time to carefully review your case and determine if you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.
