What Every Patient Needs to Know About Medical Malpractice Myths

Plenty of myths abound regarding medical malpractice claims, such as the myth that these types of lawsuits drive up the cost of healthcare for everyone and the belief that the majority of medical negligence lawsuits are baseless. Discovering the truth behind these common myths may change your perceptions of medical malpractice. If you feel you may have been affected by medical mistakes, you can contact a medical malpractice attorney to explore your legal options.

Myth: Malpractice Increases Healthcare Spending

This myth is commonly used by some lawmakers to justify establishing caps limiting the amount of medical malpractice payouts. Yet, medical malpractice represents only a very small fraction— less than half of one percent —of the total healthcare industry. In fact, medical malpractice itself is the culprit of increasing healthcare costs. Preventable medical mistakes cost billions annually because patients need additional medical care.

Myth: Most Malpractice Claims are Frivolous

Before a person can file a medical malpractice claim, certain elements must be present. It’s highly unlikely that a medical malpractice attorney would agree to represent a plaintiff who does not have a viable claim, given the costs involved with litigation. Additionally, some states require medical malpractice claims to go through a medical review process. Those that are not meritorious may be dismissed. In other words, the vast majority of malpractice complaints filed against providers are indeed meritorious—and many of them involve serious injuries or wrongful death.

Myth: Doctors Prefer to Avoid Settlements

Another common myth about medical malpractice is that doctors prefer to avoid settling lawsuits at all costs, presumably because this might cast doubt on their credibility. In actuality, settling a case is not an admission of liability on the part of the defendant.

If you have questions about medical malpractice claims, the legal team at Pegalis & Erickson LLC can provide the answers. To discuss your case, you can schedule a consultation with a medical malpractice lawyer serving Long Island, New York. Contact our malpractice law firm at (516) 684-2900 or browse our website to learn more about us.