Similarly to medical professionals, a hospital has a duty of care for their patients. When a person is admitted to hospital they expect to be reasonably cared for and have their medical needs addressed. Unfortunately, there are some instances where a patient is not appropriately treated by the hospital or its staff resulting in further loss or harm to the patient. This is known as negligence.
People may think that it is only the negligent health care professional who can be held responsible for any injury or loss suffered by the patient, however, the hospital, as an institution, may also be liable, particularly if it is aware of a potential risk and fails to take reasonable steps to eliminate that risk.
There are various examples of hospital negligence, including:
- Poor hygiene, for example, failure to disinfect rooms, equipment and other medical supplies;
- Providing incorrect dosages of medication to patients;
- Dispensing incorrect medication to patients;
- Failure to keep and maintain patient records;
- Failing to arrange for the maintenance, repairs and replacement of medical equipment;
- Abuse of patients;
- Failing to appropriately investigate or take action if a complaint has been made about a staff member.
Hospital negligence matters may be complex because it requires an assessment of the damage arising from the negligent act/omission. An assessment can be difficult if the damage concerns the extent of further injury suffered by the patient or if it otherwise affects their prognosis (ie chances of recovery).
Our Medical Lawyers and Mental Health Lawyers can strategically discuss your concerns with you, consider the strength of your claim and seek to resolve your claim without legal recourse. It is important that you meet with a Medical Lawyer or Mental Health Lawyer as soon as you are aware of the hospital negligence because time limits will apply.At Navado, our Medical Lawyers and Mental Health Lawyers understand that all matters and circumstances are different, that is why our Medical Lawyers and Mental Health Lawyers can draw upon the knowledge of and work closely with our other teams of lawyers. For example, hospital negligence matters may involve criminal law. In these circumstances, our Medical Lawyers and Mental Health Lawyers will work together with our Criminal Lawyers to assist you with your matter, to provide you with a comprehensive legal service.
If you wish to speak with one of our Lawyers about Hospital Negligence matter, we invite you to contact our firm by telephone on (02) 9233 4048 or send an email to info@navado.com.au.
This webpage (and any material or wording appearing on this webpage) is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute any Legal Advice. It does not take into account your objectives, your instructions or all of the relevant facts and/or circumstances. Navado accepts no responsibility to any person who relies on the information provided on this website. We further refer you to our Disclaimer.
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If you require assistance with a matter, you should make an appointment to see one of our Lawyers in one of the following locations:
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