Medical Malpractice on the Rise in Nation’s Capital

According to a recent story in the Examiner, medical malpractice cases are being reported at an alarming rate in Washington D.C.  In fact, it is estimated that medical errors occur in D.C. at a rate of 1.5 per day.

The report states that in the 12 months prior to June 2008, there were 529 medical malpractice incidents reported.  That averages out to about 44 per month!  Among those numbers, the death toll rang in at 14.

Errors that did not result in death included a breast cancer patient who underwent surgery on the wrong breast due to a clerical error, as well as multiple instances of instruments, sponges, catheters and needles being left inside patients following surgery or treatment.

Clearly there is a need for reform in our Nation’s capital, as those numbers are unacceptable.

If you have found yourself a victim of medical malpractice, know that you have rights.  Speak to a medical attorney right away to learn more.