December 7, 2024 | Personal Injury

Unfortunately, medical malpractice remains a very serious cause for concern. It is far too common for people to get substandard care from doctors or other medical providers. Indeed, one prominent study found that medical errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States (Johns Hopkins University). At McGuire Law Firm, we fight to protect the legal rights and financial interests of medical negligence victims. Here, our Oklahoma City medical malpractice attorney highlights the signs that you should look for if you suspect medical malpractice. 

What is Medical Malpractice?

A poor outcome after getting medical treatment is not always medical malpractice. In Oklahoma, the law for these cases is very specific. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider deviates from the accepted standard of care and, as a consequence, causes harm to a patient. Some examples include errors in diagnosis, incorrect treatment, medication mistakes, and poor aftercare. To bring a successful medical malpractice claim, a patient must prove that: 

  • There was a doctor-patient relationship established; 
  • The medical provider was negligent (substandard care); and
  • The poor care actually caused them harm. 

Four Signs You Should Look for if You Suspect Medical Malpractice

  • An Adverse Outcome (Patient Harm)

Even if a doctor or other health care provider made a mistake, you will not have a viable medical malpractice without patient harm. It is a required element of a medical malpractice lawsuit in Oklahoma. If you or a loved one experiences an unexpected adverse outcome after medical treatment, it may be a sign of malpractice. Patient harm can include worsened conditions, new injuries, or complications that were not disclosed as potential risks. For example, if a surgical procedure leads to an infection due to unsanitary conditions, that could indicate negligence. You should always document the harm and seek the proper medical treatment for those complications. 

  • Poor or Slow Communication from Your Doctor

There is no question that effective communication is one of the cornerstones of high-quality medical care. If your doctor avoids answering questions, provides vague explanations, or fails to discuss treatment options and risks, it may signal negligence. Indeed, poor communication can leave patients uninformed about their condition and treatment. Beyond that, slow responses to critical issues or delayed care—such as delays in the sharing of test results—can jeopardize patient safety. Keep records of all interactions with your healthcare provider. They may be valuable evidence. 

  • Evidence of Substandard Care

Remember, medical malpractice is about process, not just outcomes. You will need to prove you were harmed because of substandard care as part of your medical malpractice claim in Oklahoma. Broadly speaking, subpar care occurs when a medical professional fails to meet the accepted standard of practice in their field. It can take many different forms—from misdiagnosis to administering the wrong medication. The general rule is that if other qualified doctors would have handled your case differently, it could indicate negligence. A review of your medical records can help identify discrepancies in the care you receive. 

  • An Effort By the Provider to Defend Themselves (Excuses, etc)

Is your medical provider all about excuses? That could be a sign that something simply is not right. If your doctor or healthcare provider becomes defensive, blames others, or offers excuses for poor outcomes, it could be a red flag for malpractice. Providers may attempt to justify mistakes rather than acknowledge and address them transparently. For instance, shifting blame to the patient or dismissing your concerns can indicate they are aware of errors in care. Accountability matters. 

You are Not Alone: Our Oklahoma Medical Negligence Lawyers Can Help

Medical malpractice claims are notoriously complicated. It is a highly specialized, technical area of the law. In many cases, it can be difficult for patients to know whether or not their poor outcome happened, at least in part, due to medical malpractice. Oklahoma medical malpractice attorney Kent McGuire has the experience that you can rely on. Never assume that you are without options. We will review your case and connect you with the most qualified expert witnesses so that you can get justice, accountability, and financial compensation. 

Set Up a Free Consultation With an Oklahoma City Medical Malpractice Lawyer Today

At McGuire Law Firm, our Oklahoma City medical malpractice attorney has the professional expertise that you can rely on. If you have any questions or concerns about medical malpractice claims, we are here to help. Contact us today for your free case review. We represent medical malpractice victims in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and throughout the wider region.