Attorney Blog

Complications of a Pneumonia Misdiagnosis

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

If your or a loved one was the victim of a pneumonia misdiagnosis, you may be able to hold the doctor liable. If you suffered serious or life-threatening injuries as a result, compensation may be available. With the different types of medical malpractice, it can be difficult to know if you have a valid case. Contact a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer to learn what options may be available.

Pneumonia can be treated easily with antibiotics. However, if it is not properly diagnosed or if there is a delay in a diagnosis and/or treatment, it could lead to serious, life-threatening complications.

Complications of pneumonia can include:

Acute respiratory distress syndrome – lung disease that reduces oxygen and makes breathing difficult;
Bacteria in bloodstream – infection spreads through the bloodstream;
Septic shock –an infection spreading through the bloodstream can lead to organ failure and shock;
Abscess in lung – a cavity with pus may form; and
Fluid accumulation – fluid can collect around the lungs, leading to infection.

A pneumonia misdiagnosis could lead to filing a medical malpractice claim. To learn if you may be entitled to receive compensation, contact a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer as soon as possible.

Contacting a Cleveland Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Facing Medical Malpractice in Ohio? Common Types of Unnecessary Surgeries

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

You may have the right to sue your doctor if you underwent an unnecessary invasive procedure. Whether you were misdiagnosed or another form of treatment wasn’t tried first, you should consult immediately with a medical malpractice lawyer in Ohio. A lawyer can decide if you have a legitimate surgery malpractice claim worth pursuing.

Undergoing surgery is serious because there are risks involved that may have been avoided. Some of the risks of surgery include complications from anesthesia, infection, bleeding and more.

Along with the inherent risks of surgery is the stress of knowing that you didn’t need to go under the knife. This form of medical malpractice is more common when it comes to certain types of surgeries.

Here are some common types of unnecessary surgeries:

gastric bypass;
Caesarean section;
hysterectomy;
cardiac catheterization;
coronary bypass;
angioplasty;
carotid endarterectomy;
implantable pacemaker; and
back surgery.

Different types of malpractice involving surgery may lead to filing a surgery malpractice claim. When you have been the victim of unnecessary surgery, contacting a medical malpractice lawyer in Ohio is the best way to learn what legal options may be available.

Contacting a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Ohio

Do you have questions about your potential surgery malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Medical Malpractice in Ohio: Statistics You Should Know

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Medical malpractice can happen to anyone, and statistics prove it. Based on the Institute of Medicine, 90,000 deaths are caused by medical errors each year. If you or a loved has been a victim of medical malpractice you are not alone. Contact an experienced attorney today that will fight for your rights and hold the negligent doctor or healthcare professional responsible for their actions.

Medical Malpractice Statistics

Take note of the following statistics before you become the victim of medical malpractice:

of the medical malpractice lawsuits filed 15 percent were because of major physical injury and 26 percent were because of death;
between 2004 and 2006, 238,337 deaths were caused by preventable medical errors;
70 percent of patients who experience medical errors are not alerted by their physician;
50 percent of the nation’s doctors fail to report incompetent colleagues;
medical errors are the fifth leading cause of death in America;
two-thirds of doctors who are involved in 10 or more malpractice cases are never punished; and
49 percent of hospitals have never filed a single disciplinary action against one of their doctors.

Medical malpractice occurs more frequently than you may know and if you have become the victim, you have the right to pursue legal action.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

4 Ways a Doctor's Duty of Care Is Established in Ohio

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you are under medical treatment from a doctor, a duty of care exists. In other words, your doctor must legally perform the job using reasonable care. Failure to do so could lead to the filing of a physician malpractice claim.

There are certain duties that are expected of a doctor. These are what establish the relationship between the doctor and patient.

Here are 4 ways a doctor’s duty of care is established:

exercising medical care using judgment that another reasonable physician in the same specialty would.
possessing the knowledge required for the medical specialty.
applying medical care using knowledge and skills that would reasonably be expected by a competent physician in the same specialty.
possessing the skills required of a competent physician working in the same medical specialty.

A violation of any of these duties that causes serious or fatal injuries to a patient could lead to the doctor being held liable.

When there is a failure to perform, or a doctor’s duty of care has been breached, this could lead to the filing of a physician malpractice claim. To learn what your rights are, you should immediately consult with a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer.

Contacting a Cleveland Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential physician malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Grounds for a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit in Ohio

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Medical malpractice is defined as negligent behavior by a doctor, hospital staff or other healthcare professional. There are many different forms of malpractice of the medical type in Ohio and the implications can be serious, even deadly. Many patients who were injured in this way, nearly 80,000 each year, choose to file a medical malpractice lawsuit in hopes of receiving medical malpractice compensation for their damages.

Medical settlements can also serve as a way to hold the physician or other healthcare worker accountable for their actions.

Examples of Malpractice in Medical Ohio Facilities

There are many different errors that can occur in a medical setting that can hurt or injure a patient. The most commonly seen acts of negligence include:

misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of a disease or condition;
wrong site surgery;
wrong medication or overmedication;
left behind surgical instruments;
failure to provide adequate follow-up care; and
child birth and/or labor complications.

If you believe that you qualify for medical malpractice compensation you should contact an experienced Ohio lawyer as soon as possible to begin the process of a medical malpractice lawsuit. Medical settlements can be complex and time consuming so it is important to have the right legal counsel on your side.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

hat to Do after Medical Malpractice in Ohio

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

After an accident caused in a medical setting by a physician or nurse, you will probably want to sue the hospital for negligence. However, before you sue the hospital, it is vital to take care of yourself so that your health is not jeopardized any more than it already has been. After a suspected case of medical malpractice in Ohio you should:

seek immediate medical attention from a different doctor;
know what injuries you have sustained and how you got them;
file a report with the hospital and doctor; and
hire an attorney experienced with medical malpractice in Ohio who can help you sue a hospital.

It is important that you do not wait not only to get medical care for your accident, but also that you also seek legal assistance. The state limits the amount of time for you to sue a hospital. Medical malpractice in Ohio is a serious situation and should not be taken lightly. If you fail to take legal actions against a hospital for negligence, you could allow the hospital to get away with hurting another patient. Let a lawyer help you sue a hospital and get you the compensation you deserve while you focus on recovering and healing from your injuries.

Help From a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Ohio

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

8 Questions to Ask Before Giving Informed Consent in Ohio

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

The act of a doctor providing information on a patient’s medical condition and proposed treatment plan is important when it comes to informed consent. A patient can make an informed decision on how to proceed with a treatment plan only if he or she has a thorough understanding of what to expect.

If you believe you were not provided the opportunity to exercise informed consent, contact a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer. An attorney will explain what your rights are and determine if they were violated.

Here are 8 questions to ask before giving informed consent:

Why are you proposing the procedure or medical treatment?
What risks are associated with this procedure or medical treatment?
What are the benefits to the procedure or medical treatment?
Are there alternatives to what you are suggesting?
What are the risks of any alternative procedures or treatment?
What is the chance the procedure or treatment will be successful?
What is the expected recovery time?
What is the estimated cost, and do you think it will be covered by insurance?

Your doctor should be able to provide accurate information pertaining to each of your questions, so that you can make an informed decision.

Contact a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer if you would like to learn what qualifies as informed consent. A definition of it can be better explained by a legal professional who handles medical malpractice cases.

Contacting a Cleveland Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

How to Find Out if Your Doctor Has Been Sued for Medical Malpractice in Ohio

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you are looking for a new doctor for you or a loved one it is important to choose someone you trust and that is experienced. In addition to collecting recommendations from friends and family, it is also a good idea to see if the doctor you are considering to treat you has been sued for medical malpractice.

To find out if your doctor has been involved in any malpractice lawsuits you can:

call the county clerk’s office in the location where the physician practices;
call the state licensing medical board;
call the state insurance department; and
visit websites like www.docboard.org and search for your doctor.

It is not uncommon for a doctor who has been in practice a long time to have been sued before, but if you see more than one case it may be a sign that you should move on and look for a different healthcare provider.

If after being treated by a doctor, you believe you were the victim of medical malpractice you should seek legal counsel to help hold the appropriate party responsible for your injuries. You could have limited time to file a claim so do not wait to find out what you options are.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

What constitutes a breach in a doctor's duty of care in Cleveland?

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Once a relationship between a physician and patient has been established, the doctor has a legal obligation to provide a reasonable duty of care. This means doctors are expected to provide medical treatment in a manner that another doctor in a similar situation would. Failure to do so could lead to the filing of a physician malpractice claim.

It’s important to understand what constitutes a breach in a doctor’s duty of care to a patient. A treatment plan that doesn’t work doesn’t automatically mean the doctor has failed to provide reasonable care. Or if something goes wrong in surgery, and the patient dies, this also doesn’t automatically mean there was a breach in care.

It must be established that the doctor acted in a negligent manner and as a result, it led to serious or fatal injuries. Using the aforementioned examples, if a treatment plan fails but was the result of a doctor using the wrong plan because he or she failed to diagnose the correct medical condition, this potentially could be a breach.

Or if a patient dies during surgery, but it was caused by a doctor puncturing an organ, this could also be considered a breach. Determining the validity of this type of claim will require legal counsel.

A physician malpractice claim may be filed if there was a breach in a doctor’s duty of care, and it led to serious injuries. Contact a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer for help with your claim.

Contacting a Cleveland Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential physician malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Famous Cases of Medical Malpractice

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Unfortunately more than 95,000 people die each year as a result of medical malpractice. There are many different forms of medical negligence and all should be taken very seriously. It is not only “average” people that are hurt and affected by medical malpractice. Many celebrity cases of medical negligence in the news have shown just how common these incidents can be, no matter who you are.

Michael Jackson died in 2009 because of a fatal cocktail of drugs prescribed by his doctor including the powerful sedative, Propofol. His physician allowed Michael Jackson to use these drugs together ultimately causing his death.
Actor Dennis Quaid’s newborn twins were almost killed in 2007 when they accidently were given an overdose of blood-thinning medication because of a misplaced comma in the dosing directions.
In 2007, rapper Kanye West’s mother, Donda, died because of complications during a tummy-tuck plastic surgery that the doctor ignored. The doctor who performed her surgery already had 2 medical malpractice suits filed against him previously.
Julie Andrews, famous for singing, had throat surgery in 1997 and because of a doctor’s errors she was left with hoarseness and permanent vocal chord damage in effect destroying her ability to sing.

If you or a loved one were hurt in a medical malpractice accident, call an attorney today to learn about your options.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

What to Expect in an Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawsuit

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you believe that you or loved one has been harmed by the care you received from a doctor or hospital you could be considering filing a medical malpractice lawsuit to receive medical malpractice compensation to pay for your injuries and emotional distress. When you enter litigation for medical settlements for malpractice of the medical type in Ohio there are certain things you can expect.

You and your lawyer handling your medical malpractice lawsuit will have the burden of proving your case.
Your case could take months and even years to be resolved and you may not see medical malpractice compensation for a long period of time.
You may possibly have to visit an independent doctor for an examination to serve as an expert witness in your malpractice of the medical type in Ohio case.
You may not win your case and will have to explore other options with your lawyer to be awarded medical settlements.

If you are patient and following the advice and direction of your doctor and lawyer the chances of winning your case and receiving compensation are increased. Hiring a lawyer allows you to focus on recovering from your injuries rather than fighting in court.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

5 Important Factors Pertaining to Informed Consent in Ohio

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you are wondering what is informed consent and if the lack of informed consent could qualify as a case of malpractice, you should seek legal counsel. A Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer will take the time to evaluate your case carefully and determine if you may have a valid claim worth pursuing.

Informed consent is the act of a doctor providing information surrounding a diagnosis and possible treatments. It is also the act of a patient having the right to consent to or deny the treatment.

Here are 5 important factors pertaining to informed consent:

purpose and nature of the medical procedure or treatment plan;
risks and benefits of opting out of a medical procedure or treatment plan;
risks and benefits of the proposed procedure or treatment;
alternative procedures or treatments (regardless of cost and the likelihood of insurance covering it); and
risks and benefits of alternative types of procedures or treatment.

All of these factors will play an important role in the patient being able to make an informed decision concerning the route he or she should take after being diagnosed with a medical condition.

To learn what qualifies as informed consent, a definition of it can be explained by a lawyer. Contact a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer to learn if you have a legitimate claim worth pursuing.

Contacting a Cleveland Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Types of Medical Malpractice in Ohio Due to Hospital Negligence

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you were mistreated or suffered an injury at a healthcare facility because of a health professional’s carelessness you could sue the hospital. Unfortunately, there are many cases where people have had to sue a hospital for negligence because of medical malpractice in Ohio. There are many different errors that can occur which could give you cause to sue a hospital. These include:

misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis;
childbirth and/or labor injuries;
medication errors;
anesthesia errors;
wrong-site surgery;
left behind medical instruments;
delayed or non-existent follow up care; and
hospital-acquired infections.

These are not the only kind of medical malpractice in Ohio that can happen, but these are the most common mistakes that cause an injured patient to sue the hospital for negligence. If you are wondering “should I sue a hospital?” call a lawyer experienced with medical malpractice in Ohio who can take a look at the details of your case to see if you are good candidate to sue the hospital for negligence. If you or a loved one were hurt because of a physician's or nurse’s carelessness, do not hesitate to contact legal counsel. You could have limited time to bring a case.

Help From a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Ohio

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Left-Behind Surgical Instruments: A Dangerous Type of Ohio Medical Malpractice

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A Cleveland medical malpractice attorney can tell you that one of the most painful and serious types of medical malpractice occur when a surgical instrument is left behind in a patient. If you or a loved one suffered from a doctor’s negligence in this way, you could be eligible to file a malpractice claim. Ohio lawyers are experienced in proving medical malpractice and could help you win a case where medical equipment was forgotten.

Types of Surgical Equipment That Could Get Left Behind

You will often see a malpractice claim that involves the leaving behind of:

needles;
knife blades;
safety pins;
clamps;
sponges;
towels; and
tweezers.

Sponges are usually the most common objects left behind.

The Consequence of a Left-Behind Surgical Instrument

The dangers of a left-behind tool can be extremely traumatic and even life threatening. Ohio lawyers have seen cases in which these objects puncture vital organs and blood vessels, create infections and fuse themselves into bodily tissues. All of these outcomes can cause great pain and discomfort to the patient.

What should I do if a medical tool was left behind after surgery?

If it is discovered that you have been living with a surgical instrument left inside of you, you should contact a Cleveland medical malpractice attorney immediately to file a malpractice claim. Proving medical malpractice should not be difficult -- this type of error is very obvious once it is discovered.

Getting Help From Ohio Lawyers

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

5 Tips to Avoid Pharmacist Malpractice in Ohio

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Many medication errors occur because some prescription drugs have similar-sounding names and the doctor handwriting is not always legible. This can lead to medical settlements through a professional malpractice claim against your pharmacist, whether he or she is working at a hospital, clinic or drug store.

5 Tips to Avoid Professional Malpractice in Ohio

Even though you may be able to collect compensation for the damages, an injury cause by medical malpractice can be life-changing. By following these few tips you can hopefully avoid becoming a victim of pharmacist malpractice:

when you’re handed a prescription, ask your doctor the name of the medication, the dosage and its purpose;
ask your doctor how often the medication should be taken and how it should be stored;
if you’re in the hospital, have a friend or relative inquire about the name and purpose of the medication you’re given;
whenever your doctor writes you a new prescription, tell him or her about any other medication you’re taking (prescription and over-the-counter); and
always ask questions, especially if the name on the label differs from the name you expected.

If you’ve already suffered harm because of pharmacist malpractice, you should speak with a malpractice lawyer in Ohio, who may be able to help you seek medical settlements if negligence can be proven.

Help From a Malpractice Lawyer in Ohio

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio pharmacist malpractice claim or medical settlements? Before you hire a malpractice lawyer in Ohio, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a pharmacist, doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Facing Malpractice in Cleveland? Know the Annual Cost of Hospital Acquired Infections

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Hospital infection rates have been dropping, but they’re by no means rare. Hospital-acquired infections cost an average of $15,275 per patient to treat, and because Medicare announced that it would no longer reimburse hospitals or doctor’s offices for treatments or procedures resulting from preventable medical mistakes, the financial burden of the increased cost is displaced to the rest of medical patients. Others now pay more exorbitant fees for procedures and treatment.

The Committee to Reduce Infection Deaths (RID) estimated the annual cost to treat patients who have acquired infections while at the hospital exceeds $30 billion.

Although programs are being tested across America that may stem the spread or contraction of infections, few hospitals have implemented these programs, citing cost as a prohibitive factor; however, RID reported that the average cost of implementing these surveillance programs is around $114,000 and saves an average of more than $1,500,000.

Although this is only a small step towards combating the human life loss and financial loss of hospital-acquired infections, it speaks volumes that so few hospitals have taken the initiative to implement such programs.

If you or someone you love has been injured or has contracted an infection following a routine medical procedure, surgery or treatment, contact a medical malpractice attorney who can help.

Help From a Cleveland, Ohio Lawyer

Do you have questions about hospital-acquired infections or your medical negligence lawsuit? If you’ve contacted an infection in Cleveland, Ohio, a lawyer from our office may be able to help you, but before you hire an attorney, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and to learn more about hospital infection rates and the devastating impact on patients. To schedule a FREE consultation or to get more information, contact a medical malpractice attorney at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Potential Damages for Pharmacist Malpractice in Ohio

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you have an experienced malpractice lawyer in Ohio helping you seek compensation for professional malpractice, you have a good chance at recovering all compensation you are entitled to if negligence can be proven. A pharmacist's mistake can lead to debilitating conditions or even death, and you have every right to hold accountable those who have caused you or a loved one harm.

Compensation for Pharmacist Malpractice

Medical settlements in this kind of professional malpractice case could include compensation for any of the following:

disability;
loss of earnings;
emotional distress;
pain and suffering;
past, current and future medical expenses; and
any other monetary amount necessary to cover your losses and make you whole.

There is also the possibility of punitive damages in pharmacist malpractice, although rare, if it can be demonstrated that your pharmacist engaged in outrageous misconduct and should be punished as a deterrent. As someone who hasn’t studied law, it could be difficult for you to argue this case yourself.

In a professional malpractice wrongful death case, medical settlements for pain and suffering might be restricted, or not recoverable at all, depending on current wrongful death statutes. Your malpractice lawyer in Ohio can go over your case, review case histories and give you an idea of all compensation to which you may deserve.

Help From a Malpractice Lawyer in Ohio

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio pharmacist malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a pharmacist, doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

5 Tips When Choosing an Ohio Malpractice Attorney

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you’ve been injured by medical negligence and are considering pursuing a malpractice claim against the professional or practitioner responsible, you’ve probably already realized how difficult it will be to move forward without the assistance of an Ohio malpractice attorney in your corner. With the number of Cleveland, Ohio attorneys on the rise, however, it can be difficult to choose.

Here are 5 tips for choosing a malpractice attorney who is right for you and your case:

take advantage of the free consultation to ask questions;
seek out attorneys who primarily handle medical malpractice cases or who have an extensive background in medicine;
select an attorney who you feel comfortable communicating with, and who you consider to be an effective communicator;
ask about billing up front, and never be afraid to ask questions about how you’ll be charged or how your settlement will be handled; and
don’t sign anything at the attorney’s office the first time you meet him or her. Take your notes and documentation home with you to consider before you make your final decision.

Not only can an attorney help you determine if your claim falls within the parameters of what’s considered medical malpractice, but he or she can also pursue additional avenues of recovery for you.

For instance, if the pump that administered a drip to you via IV was working improperly, there may be a case for defective product liability. Whatever the case, it’s imperative that you feel comfortable with your choice in attorney.

Help From a Team of Cleveland, Ohio Attorneys

Do you have questions about your medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and to learn more about “what is considered medical malpractice” – and what is not. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact an Ohio malpractice attorney at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

When You Receive a Wrong Medical Diagnosis for Osteoporosis in Ohio

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Some diseases and disorders can be missed by a medical professional if there are no symptoms or only mild symptoms in the early stages. Unfortunately, this could lead to a patient receiving a wrong medical diagnosis and suffering declining health as a result. If this has happened to you, you should consider speaking with a Cleveland, Ohio attorney to discuss your legal options.

Wrong Diagnosis: A Close Look at Osteoporosis

Consider osteoporosis, for example. Although there are no symptoms in the early stages, later on a patient may experience:

painful or tender bones;
fractures caused by little or no trauma;
gradual loss of height;
low back pain;
neck pain; and
stooped posture.

When osteoporosis isn’t detected and treated, a patient could suffer:

spinal compression fractures;
severe disability related to weakened bones;
wrist and hip fractures; and
immobility.

There are special tests that healthcare providers should perform routinely to detect osteoporosis. However, when tests are performed inaccurately or when results are misinterpreted, a patient can receive a wrong medical diagnosis.

In the event that this happens, you should meet with a Cleveland, Ohio, attorney who handles cases involving malpractice. Ohio medical professionals owe you a duty of care and, when they commit negligence, you can hold them liable.

Help From a Cleveland, Ohio, Attorney

Do you have questions about your potential claim for malpractice in a medical Ohio facility? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Misdiagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease in Ohio

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The consequences of a misdiagnosis could lead to a patient receiving the wrong treatment and the patient's initial condition declining. If you or a loved one has received a misdiagnosis and is suffering as a result, you may be able to file a legal malpractice claim with the assistance of an Ohio medical negligence attorney.

Alzheimer's Disease: An Over-Diagnosed Condition

One of the most commonly over-diagnosed conditions in aging adults is Alzheimer's disease. Alternative conditions that cause memory loss or dementia include:

aging;
hearing loss;
emotional problems;
depression;
fatigue;
brain tumors;
pneumonia (can cause confusion in the elderly);
thyroid disease;
Huntington's disease; and
multi-infarct disease.

The most common early symptom of Alzheimer's disease is difficulty remembering new information. As the condition progresses, symptoms include:

disorientation;
behavioral changes;
decreased confusion about time, place and events;
unfounded suspicions;
difficulty speaking and walking; and
profound memory loss.

You should speak with a medical negligence attorney in Ohio to hold accountable any parties responsible for a misdiagnosis, such as Alzheimer's, which can be very costly to treat. Through a legal malpractice claim, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses and suffering.

Help From a Cleveland Attorney

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio legal malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland attorney, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

How to Avoid Medical Malpractice in Ohio

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

“Who can I sue for medical malpractice?” This might be the first question you ask after a medical accident. A doctor’s negligence is never excusable but there are some steps to you can take to protect yourself from being involved in an Ohio medical malpractice accident.

How can I avoid having to file a medical malpractice claim in Ohio?

These tips can help you to avoid medical malpractice:

have an active voice – ask your doctor or nurse questions about anything you do not understand, research your condition, and don’t miss appointments;
keep track of what you put in your body – make sure your physician knows all of the supplements and medications you are taking to avoid mixing prescriptions that could cause harmful side effects; and
bring a friend – having a friend or family member with you during appointments or procedures is a good idea so that they can be your advocate and speak up for you, if you cannot.

By taking these small steps you can help avoid being in a situation where you are asking yourself, “who can I sue for medical malpractice?” Eliminate the stress of having to file a medical malpractice claim in Ohio. However, some accidents cannot be avoided and if you were harmed by a doctor’s mistake you should contact an Ohio malpractice law firm.

Help for Ohio Medical Malpractice

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Cancer Malpractice in Ohio and the Statute of Limitations

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you or someone in your life has been the victim of cancer malpractice, an Ohio medical malpractice attorney may be able to help, but it’s important that you move quickly, because, as with most other legal actions, a statute of limitations applies that restricts the amount of time you have to file your medical malpractice claim.

The statute of limitations for filing an Ohio medical malpractice claim due to a breast cancer misdiagnosis or any other cancer malpractice in Ohio stipulates that the injured patient has 1 year from the date that the malpractice is discovered (or should have been discovered).

The malpractice statute of limitations works differently for minors. If a patient under the age of 18 is the plaintiff, the statute extends the acceptable timeframe to 1 year after the minor turns 18, regardless of when the malpractice action was committed.

In certain cases, the statute of limitations for taking action against cancer malpractice in Ohio can be extended. For instance, a plaintiff may get a 180 day extension if potential defendants receive notice of the pending lawsuit within a year after the malpractice is committed. An attorney can provide you with more information about how the statute of limitations impacts your case and your eligibility to file suit.

Help from an Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or breast cancer misdiagnosis lawsuit? Unsure what is considered medical malpractice? Before you hire a lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more your rights, contact the breast cancer misdiagnosis legal team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

The Costs of Medical Malpractice in Ohio Leading to Cerebral Palsy

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and you think medical malpractice may be a factor, medical negligence compensation may be available. To find out if you have a valid case, you should meet with a malpractice attorney in Ohio.

The cost of raising a child with cerebral palsy can be overwhelming, and you should hold negligent parties accountable for malpractice. Medical Ohio facilities and professionals owe you and your baby a duty of care, and you have every right to hold them liable when they breach that duty.

Long-Term Costs of Cerebral Palsy

Some of the costs associated with cerebral palsy include:

Early intervention - when special education begins at birth, it’ll cost about $82,000; when it begins at age 6, the cost increases to $111,000.
Wheelchairs - pediatric wheelchairs can cost about $1,000, and accessories will cause the price to increase. Also, as the child grows, the wheelchair will need to be replaced. However, some wheelchairs can be modified to accommodate a growing child.
Medical expenses - these costs will be astronomical. They include orthopedic surgeries, medication, hyperbaric oxygen chamber treatment and various other therapies.

An experienced malpractice attorney in Ohio understands how cerebral palsy can affect your family and will help you seek the medical negligence compensation your child needs to make the most of this disorder.

Help From a Malpractice Attorney in Ohio

Do you want medical malpractice insurance statistics or results? Before you hire a malpractice attorney in Ohio, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

5 Steps for Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim in Ohio

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you decide to file a medical malpractice claim against your doctor or healthcare provider you should seek the assistance of a malpractice attorney in Cleveland who has dealt with these types of medical malpractice past cases.

There are 5 steps to filing a medical malpractice claim.

Find a medical malpractice attorney. Find a lawyer who is experienced and trustworthy, someone you feel comfortable with and has handled several medical malpractice past cases.
Establish the legal elements. Together with your Ohio attorney you will gather the evidence to support your claim.
Hire an expert witness. You will need to contact an independent doctor who will certify that your injury was caused by medical negligence.
File the suit. You and your malpractice attorney in Cleveland will file the proper paperwork and notify all the parties involved in the case.
Settlement negotiation or court. Some medical malpractice cases are settled out of court but you should still have a medical malpractice attorney on your side whether you settle or decide to go to court.

After all of these steps your medical malpractice case will be resolved. You should be patient, even with the help of an Ohio attorney. Medical malpractice cases can take a long time to settle. Concentrate on getting better and let a medical malpractice attorney do the hard work for you.

Help From a Malpractice Attorney in Cleveland

Do you have questions about Ohio medical malpractice past cases? Before you hire a malpractice attorney in Cleveland, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Recognizing Cancer Symptoms to Avoid a Wrong Medical Diagnosis in Ohio

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When a patient receives a wrong medical diagnosis for cancer, treatment will be delayed, and this delay could lead to the cancer spreading. It could also lead to a medical malpractice claim for a wrong diagnosis. If you have been given a wrong diagnosis that caused your health to decline, you should discuss your options with a Cleveland, Ohio attorney.

Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Cancer

If you have any reason to believe that you have cancer, but your doctor insists that you don't, you should see an oncologist for a second opinion. You should also research your condition and be on the lookout for the general symptoms of cancer, which include:

unexplained weight loss (this usually involves a loss of 10 pounds or more without changing your eating habits);
fever (this is often a sign that cancer has spread);
fatigue;
pain; and
skin changes (skin color may darken or appear yellowish or reddened; itching and excessive hair growth are also common).

A wrong medical diagnosis can cause unnecessary suffering and may even shorten your life. If negligence can be proven, you may be able to receive compensation for your wrong diagnosis through a claim for malpractice. Medical Ohio facilities and doctors should be held accountable for their mistakes.

Help From a Cleveland, Ohio, Attorney

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Ohio Medical Malpractice: The 3 Most Common Surgical Errors

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

After an accident or death from a surgical procedure many patients and family members ask, “who can I sue for medical malpractice?” If you believe your surgeon or doctor was to blame, you could file a medical malpractice claim in Ohio for their negligence. An attorney experienced in Ohio malpractice law could look at your case to see if you have grounds for Ohio medical malpractice.

Unfortunately, these types of accidents are not uncommon and there are 3 surgical errors that happen frequently that can cause serious harm.

Wrong site surgery – when the doctor misreads the charts a surgery can be performed on the wrong part of the body. This can be seen in patients who were supposed to have a procedure on a right-side body part and it is accidentally performed on left and vice versa.
Leaving equipment behind – anything used in a surgery such as a scalpel or sponge could be left inside of a person after a surgery causing infection, pain and even death.
Improper sanitary conditions – if an operating room is not sterile or if a doctor does not clean an instrument properly, life-threatening infection can occur.

If any of these situations has happened to you or a loved one, “who can I sue for medical malpractice?” is an appropriate question. Contact an attorney working for an Ohio malpractice law firm today to see if you are eligible to file a medical malpractice claim in Ohio.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Law Firm

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Statute of Limitations for Medical Malpractice Claim in Ohio

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The process and protocol for filing a medical malpractice claim is rife with confusing verbiage, legal loopholes, and frustrating paperwork, not to mention an undulating definition of exactly what is malpractice and what is considered a reasonable margin of error.

In Ohio, the statute of limitations governs how long a person (or the state) has to move on an action, and it’s defined in terms of how long that window is. For instance, in criminal matters, if a charge isn’t brought against an offender within the timeframe afforded by the statute of limitations, then the offender cannot be legally charged with that crime.

In personal injury matters, the concept works very much the same way. If you’ve been injured by someone else, such as in the instance of medical malpractice, you only have a limited window of time in which to take action. Once that time runs out, you’re no longer able to file a claim. The statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims in Ohio is only 1 year.

While this may seem like plenty of time, it will fly by in the legal world. For this reason, it’s crucial that you speak with an attorney from a team of malpractice lawyers in Ohio who can handle your case judiciously and quickly without sacrificing focus, effort, or quality of care.

Help From a Team of Cleveland Medical Malpractice Lawyers

Do you have questions about your medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire any malpractice lawyers in Ohio order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and to learn more about “what is malpractice” – and what is not. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyers at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Frequency of Wrong Site Surgery Ohio Patients Should Be Aware Of

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The medical community takes precautions to assure the public that surgical errors, such as a wrong site surgery, are far less common than is portrayed in the media, but recent wrong site surgery statistics indicate that, in fact, these kinds of medical mistakes are more common than many of us consider. If you or a loved one has been the victim of surgery malpractice, reach out to an attorney who’s passionate about seeking justice for patients and who will educate you and your family about your legal options.

A 2010 study, reported by the Archives of Surgery, concluded that wrong site surgery (and even wrong patient surgery) numbers were considerably higher than previous estimates indicated, and surgical errors in the “catastrophic” range were far higher than the public has been led to believe. An accompanying analysis of the study stated that every hospital has had an episode of wrong site surgery, at least every year or once every few years.

Approximately one-third of these surgery malpractice errors led to permanent or long-term complications for the patient, and only 22% of those resulted in a medical malpractice claim.

Don’t be a part of the population whose injury goes unacknowledged by the members of the medical community who are responsible – if you’ve been the victim of a wrong site surgery, contact an attorney.

Help From a Wrong Site Surgery Attorney

Do you have questions about your wrong site surgery claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire an attorney, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and to learn more about surgery malpractice and wrong site surgery statistics. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact a wrong site surgery attorney at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

6 Tips to Avoid a Misdiagnosis in Ohio

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

A misdiagnosis, such as an over-diagnosis, could have dire consequences for the patient and lead to a legal malpractice claim. You may want to consult with an Ohio medical negligence attorney if you’re suffering because of a misdiagnosis.

Making the Most of Your Doctor Visit

In an effort to make the most of your doctor visit and possibly prevent a misdiagnosis, you should do the following:

Prepare for your visit in advance - Keep a diary of your symptoms, write down all of your medical problems and discuss them with your doctor.
Explain how you’re really feeling and don't be bashful - discuss your appetite, your pain, your mood, your sex drive.
Keep track of your medication - bring with you a list of all prescriptions and over-the-counter medication you’re taking.
Keep an open mind - if you're fixated on an MRI, but your doctor suggests you first try medication, give the medication a try.
Ask questions and take notes - write down pertinent information and research it.
Ask for test results - if you undergo any diagnostic tests, keep calling until you get the results.

Unfortunately, even if you’re a proactive patient, you still could become a victim of an over-diagnosis. Know that you can always consult with a medical negligence attorney to take steps toward preserving your rights.

Help From a Cleveland Attorney

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio legal malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland attorney, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Brain Injury Resulting from Medical Malpractice in Ohio

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When a patient suffers a brain injury as a result of medical malpractice, the consequences can be devastating. In order to seek medical negligence compensation for your loved one, you may need to file a claim for malpractice. Medical Ohio facilities and professionals should be held accountable for negligence, and a malpractice attorney in Ohio can be your best advocate in protecting your legal rights.

Consequences of a Brain Injury

According to statistics compiled by the Family Caregiver Alliance, the effects of a brain injury include:

Many victims do not return to work.
The majority of those who become comatose regain consciousness.
About 20% of survivors of severe injury are unresponsive for a month.
Gradual improvements can be made for 10 years after the injury.

Lifetime treatment for an individual with a brain injury can reach $4 million. To maximize medical Ohio negligence compensation, you should have an attorney review your case. These kinds of cases can be very difficult to handle because of all parties involved, including doctors, nurses, surgeons and other healthcare providers.

It would be best if you contacted a Cleveland attorney soon so all necessary work can completed in time to meet the statute of limitations for your case.

Help From a Malpractice Attorney in Ohio

Do you want medical malpractice insurance statistics or results? Before you hire a malpractice attorney in Ohio, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

How to Hire an Expert Witness for Your Ohio Malpractice Claim

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you are filing a medical malpractice claim against your doctor for an injury or illness that could have been prevented, you may have to go to court. Your Cleveland medical malpractice attorney will recommend hiring an expert witness to help in proving medical malpractice occurred. Ohio lawyers have long used expert witnesses to strengthen their cases and can help you hire one if the need arises.

How to Hire an Expert Witness

When hiring an expert witness, it's important to:

Decide on the type of expert you need. There are expert witness referral services that can connect you with the correct type of witness you need.
Provide the expert with the expected trial or deposition dates and then explain in detail the issues you will need addressed.
Give your expert witness time to review your case and all related documents and records so that he or she can form a logical and well-researched opinion on your case.

When you and your attorney choose the right expert witness for your malpractice claim, your chances of a successful case and receiving compensation increase. A Cleveland medical malpractice attorney will help you gather information that is important in proving a medical malpractice claim, including an expert witness who is trusted among Ohio lawyers.

Getting Help From Ohio Lawyers

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Why Statutes of Limitation Exist in Ohio Medical Malpractice

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

The statute of limitations for medical malpractice exists because over time, clarity of the situation can fade, evidence can become damaged or disappear and claims may not be accurate. The state wants to protect patients and doctors in the event of a medical accident.

Medical malpractice statistics show that insurance fraud can be an unfortunate side effect of medical accidents. Therefore, having these limitations can curb the amount of false Ohio medical malpractice law cases that are brought against doctors and other health professionals.

What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Ohio?

The statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Ohio is generally 1 year from when the event took place or the ill effects of the event are discovered. If you were involved in a medical accident that could have been prevented, you should consider contacting an Ohio medical malpractice attorney to discuss your options.

Don’t miss your chance to file an Ohio medical malpractice law case because the statute of limitations for medical malpractice expired. Medical malpractice statistics point to a lower chance of winning your case if you hesitate to seek legal help from an Ohio medical malpractice attorney after your accident.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Attorney

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Preventing the Spread of Hospital-Acquired Infections in Ohio

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

To mitigate the spread of hospital-acquired infections, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), implement the following precautionary protocols into your daily routine if you’re in the hospital, have recently been released from the hospital or are visiting people at the hospital. Speak with a Cleveland, Ohio lawyer if you’ve been the victim of a hospital infection.

Wash your hands thoroughly and often – scrub your hands for at least 15 seconds and use a disposable towel to touch the faucet;
Keep wounds covered – any wounds should be kept clean and covered with sterile, dry bandages;
Don’t share your personal items – MRSA spreads through direct contact and via contaminated objects, so razors, towels, sheets or clothing should not be shared; and
Sanitize your linens – wash towels and linens on the hottest water setting available if you have a cut or a sore, and wash all of your athletic clothes after each use.

Hospital infection rates have dropped during recent years, but these infections still claim the lives of tens of thousands of Americans each year and countless more across the globe. If you or someone you love has been the victim of a hospital infection, contact a medical malpractice attorney who can help you build your case against the person or parties responsible.

Help From a Cleveland, Ohio Lawyer

Do you have questions about hospital-acquired infections or your medical negligence lawsuit? If you’ve contacted an infection in Cleveland, Ohio, a lawyer from our office may be able to help you, but before you hire an attorney, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and to learn more about hospital infection rates and the devastating impact on patients. To schedule a FREE consultation or to get more information, contact a medical malpractice attorney at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Warnings Signs When Looking for an Ohio Malpractice Attorney

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you’re looking for an Ohio malpractice attorney to represent you in your claim, you’re looking for someone who can defend your rights, represent your interests, and help you determine if your case falls within the parameters of what is considered medical malpractice.

But you may find that not all attorneys are as reliable as others. We’ve all heard the stories of those attorneys who are out-and-out “bad,” there are some warning signs for which you should be on the lookout:

Charging for a consultation – attorneys rarely, and shouldn’t, ask potential clients to sign an employment contract before meeting with you for a consultation. If an attorney is unwilling to listen to the details of your case before taking you on, it’s unlikely that he or she has your best interests at heart.
Upfront fees – most attorneys charge on a conditional fee agreement, which means that they only recover something if you’re awarded a settlement; therefore, there should be no upfront fees.
Recovery guarantees – no attorney can tell you with certainty that you’ll win your claim, or what your recovery amount will be. If a lawyer tries to tell you in your consultation that you can get $10,000, $100,000, or even $500,000 for your claim, guaranteed, something is probably awry.

Attorneys, like clients and cases they represent, aren’t “one size fits all,” so take the time to consult with all the Cleveland, Ohio attorneys on your list before you hire one or the other.

Help From a Team of Cleveland, Ohio Attorneys

Do you have questions about your medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and to learn more about “what is considered medical malpractice” – and what is not. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact an Ohio malpractice attorney at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Types of Compensation Available in Medical Malpractice Cases

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Many medical malpractice past cases have been resolved with many different outcomes and forms of compensation for the plaintiffs. If you are considering filing a medical malpractice claim a malpractice attorney in Cleveland can walk you through the process.

Types of Compensation Available through Medical Malpractice Claim

Compensation for medical malpractice is based on the type of damages that the patient incurred. An Ohio attorney who has dealt with medical malpractice cases will know what type of compensation to fight for in your case:

lost wages for time missed from work;
indirect damages such as pain and suffering, lessened quality of life, and more;
punitive damages as a form of punishment for the doctor or healthcare provider;
medical bills that are not covered by your insurance company; and
life expenses such as diet needs, childcare and home maintenance.

There are caps for the amount of compensation you receive depending on the details of your case. These caps were established from medical malpractice past cases and can usually not be changed.

You should not undertake this type of legal situation alone. An experienced medical malpractice attorney will fight to pursue you the most compensation available while you concentrate on healing from your injuries and taking care of your family.

Help From a Malpractice Attorney in Cleveland

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

5 Common Myths about Cancer that Could Result in Ohio Malpractice

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Because cancer has become such a prevalent disease in recent years, many people have misconceptions about the causes, treatments and prevention. Listed below are 5 common myths you may hear regarding cancer:

“Today’s medical technology can detect all cancer.” Even though great advances have been made in medical screenings, a wrong diagnosis or cancer misdiagnosis can still occur.
“My doctor has been trained to identify every type of cancer.” Because there are so many different varieties of cancer your physician could be unaware of the tests and treatments available for these diseases and could give you a cancer misdiagnosis.
“Regular check-ups are sufficient to act as early detection.” While there is no question that regular visits to the doctor can increase your chances of early detection of cancer, doctors can still make mistakes. A missed cancer diagnosis could happen no matter how often you visit the doctor.
“All cancers are detected the same way.” Some cancers require special tests that if your doctor fails to order, could result in a wrong diagnosis.
“A biopsy will find my cancer.” If a biopsy is not performed properly or is not taken in the right place a cancer misdiagnosis can happen.

If you believe you were misdiagnosed with cancer or that your doctor missed a cancer diagnosis you could be eligible to file a medical malpractice claim. A lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio, could look at your case to see if you qualify.

Help From a Lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a wrong diagnosis. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

How False Mammogram Readings Cause Breast Cancer Misdiagnosis in Ohio

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Something that many women don’t know – and that many doctors fail to tell them – is that mammograms don’t pick up on all types of breast cancer. Misdiagnosis often results from a false negative mammogram result when a medical professional fails to make the call to follow up on a suspicious mass simply because the imaging study gave a negative readout.

If your treatment has been delayed because of a misdiagnosis, you should reach out to an Ohio medical malpractice attorney to schedule a consultation to determine whether or not you’re eligible for a medical negligence claim for cancer malpractice.

In Ohio, the difference between what’s considered medical malpractice and what isn’t ultimately comes down to whether or not there was sufficient evidence that the medical professional should’ve followed up.

The prevailing standard of care in the medical community expects that a clinician will follow-up on a palpable mass, even with a negative mammogram. In other cases, the doctor may decide to follow up on a palpable mass with a negative mammogram reading, but the pathologist may misinterpret a biopsy slide.

There are many other ways that a medical professional or administrative staffer can make an error that dramatically impacts the physical health of a patient. That’s why, if you or a loved one has been affected by cancer malpractice in Ohio, a malpractice claim attorney may be able to help.

Help from an Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Unsure what is considered medical malpractice? Before you hire a lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more your rights, contact the breast cancer misdiagnosis legal team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Common Causes of Wrong Site Surgery in Ohio

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Wrong site surgery is a serious problem endemic to the medical community and the patients who rely on the skill and care of medical practitioners. Despite the prevalence and seriousness of these types of surgery malpractice errors, only a fraction of injured victims are able to recover financial compensation to defray the injustice perpetrated upon them by the professionals they relied on for medical services.

The causes of wrong site surgery can be difficult to pin down, but some of the most common errors are a result of one or a combination of the following:

Operating on the wrong side of the body;
Marking the incorrect surgery site;
Failing to communicate mistakes or misunderstandings to other medical staff members; and
Operating on a patient based on the wrong test results.

Most medical professionals conduct themselves with the utmost care, caution and professionalism, maintaining vigilant standards to prevent surgery malpractice errors like wrong site surgery – statistics even indicate that just 1% of physicians account for 55% of all medical malpractice claims.

If you or someone you love has been the victim of a serious surgical error that resulted in medical complications or long-term injuries, contact an attorney who will pursue your case relentlessly to get you the financial recovery you need to cover the cost of your medical expenses and lost income.

Help From a Wrong Site Surgery Attorney

Do you have questions about your wrong site surgery claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire an attorney, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and to learn more about surgery malpractice and wrong site surgery statistics. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact a wrong site surgery attorney at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

Common Misdiagnosed Cancers that Could Lead to Ohio Malpractice

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Cancer is the usually the most commonly misdiagnosed disease causing patients serious complications and even death. A wrong diagnosis or cancer misdiagnosis can cause unfortunate delays in treatment. There are some forms of cancer that are more frequently misdiagnosed than others. If you believe you have a missed cancer diagnosis, call a lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio, to discuss your options for a medical malpractice claim.

What are the most commonly misdiagnosed cancers?

Common misdiagnosed cancers include:

breast cancer – although many advancements have been made in this field, breast cancer lumps are often misdiagnosed as infections or cysts;
colorectal cancer – early stages of this type of cancer can often have little or no symptoms or can be mistaken for hemorrhoids or irritable bowel syndrome; and
lung cancer – lung cancer is often given a wrong diagnosis of a respiratory infection or common cold.

What can I do if I think I have been given a cancer misdiagnosis?

Contact a trusted medical malpractice lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio, if your doctor missed a cancer diagnosis that has caused you or a loved one serious illness or death. Do not wait to take action if your healthcare provider has been negligent as you may only have a certain amount of time to file a claim.

Help From a Lawyer in Cleveland, Ohio

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim from a wrong diagnosis or medical negligence lawsuit related to cancer misdiagnosis? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

3 Ways to Destroy a Medical Malpractice Claim in Ohio

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you’ve been injured as the result of a medical professional’s failure to take due care in a surgical procedure, or even a routine treatment, you may be entitled to certain damages through a medical malpractice claim. If you’ve been asking yourself, “what is malpractice, and how do I know if my injury qualifies?” Then consider meeting with one of our Cleveland medical malpractice lawyers.

3 Things that can Ruin Your Medical Malpractice Claim in Ohio

Try to avoid these 3 things if at all possible:

Fail to retain the services of an attorney – malpractice insurance providers are notoriously aggressive, and can even resist paying you after a settlement or verdict has been reached.
Wait until the last minute to move on your medical malpractice claim – the statute of limitations in Ohio expires after 1 year, and that’s not a lot of time to gather the evidence and testimony needed.
Voice your suspicions of malpractice to your doctor, a nurse, office staffer, or any other medical practitioner until after you’ve spoken with an attorney.

If you’ve been injured by medical negligence, speak with one of our malpractice lawyers. Ohio law guarantees certain protections to victims who have been injured by malpractice, and you deserve all the benefits of those protections.

Help From a Team of Cleveland Medical Malpractice Lawyers

Do you have questions about your medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire any malpractice lawyers in Ohio order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and to learn more about “what is malpractice” – and what is not. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyers at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Understanding Dental Medical Malpractice in Ohio

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When most people think of the medical malpractice definition hospitals, doctors and nurses come to mind but did you know that there are other healthcare professionals who can also be held liable for Cleveland medical malpractice? Any type of negligence should be reported to a medical malpractice attorney in Ohio who can help you file a claim before the medical malpractice statute of limitation closes.

Dentists work on sensitive parts of our bodies and oral health is connected to much of our overall health so when a Cleveland medical malpractice dental mistake is made it can be just as serious as any other type of healthcare negligence.

What is the dental malpractice definition?

There are many ways you could become a victim dental malpractice including:

failure to detect oral disease;
improper use of dental instruments and surgical tools;
implantation of defective dental products;
injury to the oral cavity and/or the tissue and bone surrounding it; and
death due to misuse of anesthetic.

If you believe your dentist or any other doctor has injured you and may be guilty of Cleveland medical malpractice you should contact a medical malpractice attorney in Ohio to help you understand the malpractice definition and what to do before the medical malpractice statute of limitation expires.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Attorney

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor, hospital, or dentist's mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Childbirth Injury and Medical Malpractice in Ohio

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

One of the most tragic forms of Cleveland medical malpractice occurs when a newborn is hurt in a childbirth injury by a negligent doctor. There are many different types of injuries that can occur during childbirth that fall into a medical malpractice definition.

Sometimes it can take a while to figure out who is to blame for an injured baby. Because of the medical malpractice statute of limitation you could miss out on the chance to file a claim if you wait too long to hire a medical malpractice attorney in Ohio.

Common Birth Injuries that could be Cleveland Medical Malpractice

Birth injuries that may be grounds for a medical malpractice claim include:

bleeding beneath cranial bones in a baby’s head;
broken blood vessels in a baby’s eyes;
facial paralysis due to excessive pressure forced on a baby’s face during delivery;
paralysis of the arms or shoulders;
collarbone or clavicle fractures from failure to perform a c-section when needed;
lacerations and bruising from misuse or overuse of medical instruments; and
cerebral palsy from birth complications such as lack of oxygen.

When a Newborn is the Victim of Medical Malpractice

A medical malpractice attorney in Ohio will be able to tell you if your case falls under the malpractice definition by examining the details of your claim. If you are eligible you should begin the process of filing a Cleveland medical malpractice claim before the medical malpractice statute of limitation runs out.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Attorney

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

How to Avoid a Medication Error in Ohio

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Medical malpractice statistics show that one of the most common types of medical negligence that can result in illness or injury is medication mistakes. If an interaction of medication or the prescribing of a wrong medication made you sick, you could be eligible to file an Ohio medical malpractice law claim.

However, because of the statute of limitations for medical malpractice you only have 1 year to do so. An Ohio medical malpractice attorney can help you through this difficult type of case.

How can medication errors be prevented?

Follow these tips to prevent medication errors:

take your medications and/or a list of your medications with you when you go to the doctor or hospital;
if your doctor prescribes new medications ask the names of the medications and why you are taking them;
look at all medicines before you take them;
do not let anyone administer medication to you without checking your hospital ID bracelet every time;
do not let anyone besides a nurse or doctor give you medication; and
ask for an information sheet to take home with you when you are starting any new medications.

Even with careful considerations, medical mistakes still happen and you could wind up one of the medical malpractice statistics. If you have reason to file an Ohio medical malpractice law claim, make sure your Ohio medical malpractice attorney does this within the statute of limitations for medical malpractice so that you don’t miss out on your chance for compensation.

Help From an Ohio Medical Malpractice Attorney

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Equipment Errors that Result in Ohio Anesthesia Complications

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Anesthesia complications can be the result of any number of factors but it can be particularly difficult for victims and loved ones to cope with those mistakes that are the result of a an equipment malfunction at a doctor’s office or a hospital.

If an equipment error occurred during your procedure that affected the regulation of anesthesia, speak with an Ohio malpractice claim attorney for more information and to determine whether or not you may be eligible to pursue a medical malpractice claim against the liable parties.

For instance, one possible equipment error could be in the flow meter. The flow meter regulates the quantities of anesthesia that are being used to safely put a patient to sleep.

Malfunctions with this small but vital mechanism could result in too much anesthesia being administered, which could cause permanent damage.

Alternatively, some anesthesia risks are also associated with too little anesthesia being administered, which could cause conscious sensation ranging from discomfort to severe pain.

We rely on the safety and efficiency of the technology that our medical professionals use to regulate, monitor, and augment our health and physical wellbeing. With so much riding on the ability of these machines to safely perform their intended functions, patients are entitled to the knowledge that every safety measure is being followed to the letter to defray the probability of anesthesia risks or complications.

Help from an Ohio Malpractice Claim Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a medical malpractice claim lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of a doctor or hospital’s mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Ohio malpractice claim lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Ohio Malpractice Claim: Anesthesia Complication and Wrong Dosage Error

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Anesthesia allows patients to undergo serious and potentially painful procedures without being subject to the discomfort and agony they might otherwise be forced to endure. However, it is sometimes the case that certain anesthesia risks arise in the operating room. In some cases, these anesthesia complications are the result of an honest mechanical failure, but in most instances, these mistakes are the result of human error.

A dosage error can occur when the anesthetic compound is labeled improperly, which can result in the wrong dosage being administered. Sometimes an administrative staff employee might make a simple clerical error while stocking chemicals.

For instance, an office assistant could accidentally put 10-miligram bottles of an anesthetic product in the same drawer as 50-miligram bottles of the same product. Although these might seem like small quantities, the effect of being administered 5 times the necessary dosage of a powerful anesthetic could be the difference between life and death.

Wrong dosage errors can cause anesthesia complications that result in one or several of the following:

brain trauma;
nerve damage;
partial or total paralysis;
cardiac arrest or damage to heart tissue;
coma; and
death.

If you or someone you care about has been the victim of wrong dosage error, contact an attorney about filing a medical malpractice claim to get the financial compensation you deserve.

Help from an Ohio Malpractice Claim Lawyer

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire a medical malpractice claim lawyer, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal recourse in the event of anesthesia complications. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about anesthesia risks and your rights, contact the Ohio malpractice claim lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today – 216-241-1901 or 888-457-1147.

Liability in an Ohio Personal Injury Case Involving Wrong Site Surgery

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Unfortunately, surgical errors are not uncommon. One type that may lead to serious or life-threatening consequences is wrong site surgery. This can happen on the wrong patient, the wrong side of a patient or with the wrong procedure.

To learn what your rights are, you should consult with Cleveland personal injury attorneys, who have experience with medical malpractice cases. They can assist you with filing paperwork, collecting evidence and any other part of the claims process.

Liable Parties in Wrong Site Surgery

Wrong site surgery is a preventable type of medical mistake, with the potential for liability to be found with the:

surgeon;
nurse;
anesthesiologist;
pre-operative care staff member;
hospital; and
other medical professionals involved in the procedure.

It may seem like a daunting task to go after a surgeon or other medical professional. However you have the right to seek compensation if you were seriously injured, physically and/or emotionally, as a result of a medical mistake.

Ohio personal injury attorneys can help with your medical malpractice claim if you were injured by wrong site surgery. Compensation may be available that addresses your medical expenses, lost wages, mental anguish, wrongful death, pain and suffering, and more.

Help From Ohio Personal Injury Attorneys

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire an Ohio personal injury attorney, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital's mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today - 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

3 Mistakes That Could Lead to Wrong Site Surgery in Ohio

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

While there are different types of mistakes that can happen in the medical field, wrong site surgery is one of those that is preventable. If you've suffered injuries as a result, Cleveland personal injury attorneys who handle cases involving medical malpractice can help.

3 Medical Mishaps Resulting in Wrong Site Surgery in Ohio

The following 3 medical mistakes can lead to wrong site surgery and a medical malpractice claim.

failing to go through pre-surgical verification (type of procedure being performed, site of the surgery, identifying correct patient);
not marking the surgical site (should be clearly identified); and
not designating a "time out" (when the surgical group discusses the procedure and double checks that everything is prepared and ready).

In some cases a member of the surgical team may decide that any one of these isn't necessary, or he or she may be in a rush to get the surgery done. Failure to follow through on any of these actions could lead to devastating consequences.

You may need to consult with Ohio personal injury attorneys if you or someone you love has been the victim of wrong site surgery. A medical malpractice claim may be able to address the injuries suffered.

Help From Ohio Personal Injury Attorneys

Do you have questions about your potential Ohio medical malpractice claim or medical negligence lawsuit? Before you hire an Ohio personal injury attorney, order our FREE Ohio medical malpractice guide to learn about your rights and options for legal resource in the event of a doctor or hospital's mistake. To schedule a FREE consultation or learn more about your rights, contact the Cleveland medical malpractice lawyer team at Mellino Law Firm LLC today - 1-216-241-1901 or 1-888-457-1147.

What Could I Have Done?

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Unless you have gone to medical school and completed residency or other specialty training, there is probably nothing you could have done to prevent the malpractice that injured you or someone you love.

Most malpractice occurs when a doctor, nurse or other caregiver fails to follow safety rules or precautions put in place by the hospital, practice or professional organizations. We all know things are safer when standardized rules or systems are being followed. That way everyone involved in the process knows what to expect. Would you prefer your doctor used a tried and a proven method of treatment or try something new on you?

Hospitals have rules they call policies and procedures. These policies and procedures are tested, proven treatment methods that ensure patient safety. Doctors and nurses are responsible for knowing the policies and procedures at the hospitals they work at.

Most medical specialities publish guidelines that set out the safest and most effective treatments in that specialty area. When caregivers follow these rules patients very rarely get injured and if a bad result ensues at least the doctor has a sound reason for his or her actions.

Not following safety rules drastically increases the chances that a patient will be injured. Just like if everyone stopped following traffic safety rules the number of car collisions would dramatically rise.

However most people that come to see me about a potential medical malpractice second guess themselves about what they could have done to prevent reaction which the defense will try to get the jury to use against you.

The reality though, is that the average person and probably you are unaware that a hospital, group or organization has safety rules let alone what those rules are. The best thing you can do to prevent medical malpractice is to find a competent, qualified, experienced doctor who will explain things to you in a way that you understand, provide a good medical history and then let him or her do their job.

The bottom line in most things in life including medical malpractice is not whether after the fact you can think of something else you could have done, but did you do your best with the information you had at the time? Almost always in the people I talk to the answer is yes.

Does Your Doctor Look at Test Results?

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

We are getting a lot of calls right now from people who are being diagnosed with advanced diseases, like cancer, some that are terminal that should have been diagnosed much sooner. We've seen cases where something abnormal is seen on an x-ray and even though written reports are being sent to the treating doctor(s) office nothing gets done about the abnormal findings.

The two most common reasons seem to be that the doctor never sees the report of the doctor assumes some one else is following up. Either way, it's a failure to communicate.

The same thing happens even more commoly with laboratory resting results. For some reason, doctors don't seem to either look at the results of tests they are ordering or don't seem to have systems checks in their office to ensure that they are made aware of the results.

Often the abnormal result is not discovered by the patient until much later sometimes months or years later. If you or a loved one has been recently diagnosed with a condition that you believe should have been caught earlier, give The Mellino Law Firm a call, we can help. Also, for more information, be sure to check out this article further discussing doctors' failure to follow up on test results.