Block, Klukas, Manzella & Shell - March 2019

Was It Malpractice? 3 Signs You May Have a Case

It is normal to feel scared, confused, or frustrated after suffering an injury or illness. There are few things more distressing than finding yourself in poor health. This is why we rely on doctors and other medical professionals to help us in our time of need. Unfortunately, doctors are not always as responsible as they should be. According to the National Academy of Sciences, nearly 98,000 Americans die each year due to medical mistakes. If you fear a doctor’s negligence harmed you or a loved one, you may have grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit. Here are a few malpractice red flags to be aware of. A DOCTOR REFUSED TO GIVE YOU STRAIGHT ANSWERS TO DIRECT QUESTIONS. Yes, doctors have a lot on their plates, but they should never be too busy to help their own patients. If your doctor seemed harried or distracted, didn’t take the time to answer your questions, failed to provide you with information you requested, or disregarded any of your concerns, it could be a sign they didn’t give your treatment the attention you deserved. This can also happen if the health care facility seemed understaffed. YOU SUFFERED SIDE EFFECTS YOU WERE NOT WARNED ABOUT. While it is generally accepted that there may be risks or side effects associated with certain treatments, your doctor has a responsibility to notify you of all such risks so you can make an

informed decision about your treatment. If you suffer a severe negative reaction to treatment or medication that you were not warned of, you may have a case. YOU DO NOT RECOVER OR YOU GET WORSE DURING TREATMENT. If your doctor-prescribed treatment fails to aid your recovery, it may be a sign your doctor improperly diagnosed you or did not provide acceptable care. That said, it’s important to remember that a poor outcome doesn’t automatically indicate malpractice . As long as the medical professional provides quality care and addresses their patient’s needs “based on the accepted community and medical specialty,” then they likely did not commit malpractice. Malpractice cases are a complicated matter, and most medical professionals work very hard to make sure their patients receive the best care they can provide. But if a doctor fails in their sworn obligation to first do no harm, they must take responsibility for their actions before their negligence brings harm to more patients. There is a statute of limitations on malpractice lawsuits, so if you think you may have a case, take action now. Get in touch with a medical malpractice lawyer by calling 815-726-9999. Learn if you have a case and what steps you need to take to seek justice.

SUDOKU

EVERYTHING POPCORN

INGREDIENTS

• 3/4 cup popcorn kernels • 2 tablespoons flaky sea salt • 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds • 2 teaspoons white sesame seeds • 2 teaspoons granulated garlic

• 2 teaspoons granulated onion • 1/3 cup canola oil • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

DIRECTIONS

1. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast sesame seeds. Shake skillet often and cook until white seeds are golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and add garlic, onion, and salt. 2. In a large saucepan, combine popcorn kernels and oil. Cook over medium-high heat, covered, until popcorn kernels start to pop. Once popping, continue cooking and shaking the pan intermittently until popping ceases, about 3–5 minutes. 3. Transfer popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Pour in butter and toss to coat. Finally, add seasoning, toss again, and serve.

Inspired by Food & Wine magazine

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