The Rise of Medical Malpractice What Qualifies in the Eyes of the Courts?
Health care professionals in our society have a sacred trust. In many cases, our very lives are in their hands. But mistakes on their part may be more common than you think. In 2016, medical errors rose in the rankings to become the third most common cause of death in the United States. Just how common are fatal medical errors? According to the National Center for Health Statistics, over 250,000 deaths per year can be attributed to medical errors. That’s as many as Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and the flu/pneumonia combined. Only heart disease and cancer are higher on the list. We’ve written about wrongful death before, but today, we’re focusing specifically on medical malpractice. After all, malpractice can lead to extended illness, disability, and even death. In Louisiana state law, medical malpractice is a legal term that refers to a health care provider’s negligence or misconduct that results in personal injury. A health care provider can be a doctor, nurse, hospital staff, or anyone the court deems qualified.
Malpractice can refer to many things, including the following:
● Misdiagnosis ● Failure to diagnose ● Surgical errors
● Premature hospital discharge ● Improper prescription orders … and many more.
Louisiana’s Medical Malpractice Act prevents health care providers from having liability beyond certain limitations. It takes a lawyer with a combination of medical knowledge, legal experience, litigation skills, and financial resources to adequately pursue a malpractice claim.
TAKE A BREAK
Scrambling to find something for the holiday potluck? This fondue is sure to impress! Easy Holiday Party Cheese Fondue
Ingredients
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Salt to taste
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¾ cup dry white wine
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Foods to dip (apple slices, bread cubes, roasted vegetables, etc.)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1 (8-ounce) package sliced Swiss cheese
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1 clove garlic
Directions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together wine and cornstarch. 2. Chop cheese slices into small, uniform pieces. 3. Rub clove of garlic all over the sides and bottom of a heavy-bottomed pot, then discard. 4. Heat wine mixture over medium-low heat in the pot until thick and bubbling. Add some cheese and slowly whisk. When nearly smooth, add more cheese and whisk gently. Repeat until all cheese is melted. If mixture seems too tight, add 1 tablespoon wine. 5. Season with salt and serve immediately. Keep pot on low heat to keep the fondue dippable.
CANDY ELF FAMILY HOLLY JOY
LIGHTS MISTLETOE NOEL ORNAMENTS PRESENTS
REINDEER SANTA STAR STOCKINGS TREE
Recipe inspired by PinchofYum.com
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