Medical malpractice refers to situations where a healthcare professional or provider deviates from the standard of care, resulting in harm to a patient. This can include errors in diagnosis, treatment, medication, or aftercare.

Medical errors are unfortunately quite common, with studies estimating that they are the third leading cause of death in the United States. It is important for healthcare providers to take steps to prevent errors and improve patient safety.

Medical errors can have serious consequences for patients, including physical harm, emotional distress, financial burdens, and even death. Patients and their families may also experience a loss of trust in the healthcare system.

In order to prove medical malpractice, a patient must demonstrate that a healthcare provider breached the standard of care, that this breach caused harm, and that damages resulted from this harm. Expert testimony and medical records are often used as evidence in these cases.

Healthcare providers can take several steps to prevent medical errors, including improving communication among staff, implementing electronic health records, conducting regular training and education, and encouraging a culture of transparency and accountability.