Articles Posted in Medical Malpractice

The U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality announced the results of a study that finds preventable mistakes that occur during and after surgery would save countless lives, and save approximately $1.5 billion per year.

According to the study, medical insurance companies paid 52% more for surgical patients who suffered acute respiratory distress post-surgery, and 48% more for post-surgical infections, compared to patients who did not experience those complications. In addition, the study found that nursing care associated with medical errors, including bed sores and hip fractures, caused an increase in costs of 33%.

Most stunning is the study’s finding that one of every 10 patients who died within 90 days of surgery did so as a result of medical malpractice.

It’s been a bad few weeks for the image of hospitals in America.

Two weeks ago, a woman died in the emergency room of a New York Hospital waiting for a bed. She apparently waited over 24 hours, and surveillance cameras show her lying on the floor of the ER for more than an hour before an employee came to check on her. Several staff members have been suspended or fired, including doctors and the family intends to file a lawsuit for malpractice.

Last Sunday, a 34-year-old woman died after getting stuck in the elevator of a Des Moines, Iowa hospital.

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