Most people know how dangerous medical mistakes can be, but they’re often not aware of how prevalent and widespread they are. A big reason for that is inaccurate research over the years that downplayed the number of medical malpractice cases.
For example, in 1999, the Institute of Medicine published a report indicating that around 98,000 people die every year because of mistakes made in hospitals. According to a report by NPR, that number was at first debated, but is now accepted by doctors and hospital officials throughout the country.
In 2010, the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services reported that poor care in hospitals led to the deaths of around 180,000 Medicare patients alone each year. And another study released in September 2013 found that between 210,000 and 440,000 patients die each year due to preventable causes when they’re admitted to hospitals.
If that number is accurate, then medical errors become the third-leading cause of death in the country, just behind heart disease and cancer. At Stewart & Stewart Injury Lawyers, we know it’s difficult to accurately determine how many patients die each year because of medical errors and malpractice, as a huge number of cases go unreported.
However, we also know that patients and their families deserve a voice and an investigation when they suspect medical malpractice. That’s why our Indiana medical malpractice lawyers are ready to fight for the rights of anyone who received negligent care from a healthcare provider.
Don’t wait another day to get the experienced representation you and your family deserve. Call today for a free consultation.