Most of us trust that doctors, nurses, and hospitals will help us heal, not cause more harm. However, when a medical professional makes a serious mistake, the consequences can be life-changing. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider’s care falls below the accepted standard and results in injury, illness, or even death.

Each year, thousands of people are injured or killed due to medical errors in the United States. Many of these incidents go unreported, and patients are often not even sure what happened or what to do next.

To bring attention to this issue, the National Medical Malpractice Advocacy Association (NMMAA) recognizes July as Medical Malpractice Awareness Month. The month is about raising awareness of medical errors, encouraging transparency in healthcare, and supporting those affected by negligence.

6 Signs You May Have a Medical Malpractice Case

Medical malpractice can be difficult to recognize right away. But certain situations and outcomes may suggest that a preventable medical mistake caused your injury. Below are some common signs:

1. You Were Misdiagnosed or Not Diagnosed in Time
If your condition was diagnosed incorrectly or came too late to prevent serious harm, it could be malpractice. A delayed or missed diagnosis can lead to worsening health, delayed treatment, or even life-threatening complications that could have been avoided.

2. You Had a Surgical or Anesthesia Error
Surgical mistakes, such as operating on the wrong area, leaving surgical tools inside the body, or not properly administering anesthesia, can have serious consequences and are often preventable. These types of errors can result in long-term health problems, additional surgeries, or even death.

3. You Did Not Receive Proper Treatment
Every patient deserves care that meets accepted medical standards. If a doctor failed to provide the appropriate treatment, skipped necessary steps, or ignored important symptoms, that failure could be considered medical malpractice.

4. A Medication Error Caused Harm
Taking the wrong medication or dosage can cause severe injuries, allergic reactions, or worsen your condition. If your injury was caused by a prescription mistake, whether from a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, you may have a valid claim.

5. You Were Hurt During Labor or Delivery
Injuries to a mother or baby during childbirth can cause lifelong complications. Many of these injuries are preventable and may be the result of negligent care.

6. A Loved One Passed Away Unexpectedly in a Medical Setting
If someone close to you passed away during or shortly after receiving medical treatment, and the reason does not make sense, it may be worth investigating whether negligence played a role. Preventable deaths are one of the most serious outcomes of medical malpractice.

Bottom Line: Do Not Wait to Get Help

If any of these signs sound familiar, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible to determine if you have a case.