A recent study has suggested that medical malpractice may be causing more deaths than those officially reported, and medical errors may be the third leading cause of death in America.
According to a study conducted by doctors at John Hopkins, more people in the U.S. are likely killed by medical negligence than by lower respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and emphysema. In the death rate information analyzed in the study, doctors found there are an estimated 251,454 medical errors that result in fatalities every year. Medical malpractice death rates can be misleading because not all incidents are reported. Doctors Michael Daniel and Martin Makary are hoping the healthcare system will take further steps to improve patient safety. The researchers suggested adding an option to death certificates that would state whether one died as a result of medical negligence.
Lawyers at the Goings Law Firm, LLC understand that many families are devastated by losing a loved one to medical errors. If you or someone you love has been the victim of medical malpractice, we may be able to help you pursue claims against negligent parties. Call our office at (803) 350-9230 to learn more about your legal options.