Initial Steps to Take in a Long Island Medical Malpractice Case

Leaving the doctor’s office feeling worse than you did when you arrived may be an unpleasant experience, but it does not necessarily mean you should file a medical malpractice claim. However, if you have reason to believe you have suffered serious physical harm because of a physician’s professional misconduct, it is important to know what options you have when it comes to malpractice litigation as well as what you can do before filing suit to improve your chances of success.

Some initial steps to take in a Long Island medical malpractice case could substantially strengthen your settlement demand or lawsuit if it becomes necessary to pursue one. Throughout the process, one of our dedicated malpractice attorneys could offer guidance about how to protect your best interests and tenaciously advocate on your behalf.

Speak With the Provider You Suspect Was Negligent

It may understandably feel counterintuitive, but going back to the provider who caused you harm and speaking with them directly about their actions is one of the first steps you should take before formally starting your medical malpractice claim in Long Island. Doctors who are informed of mistakes they make are often willing to correct ensuing problems free of charge or otherwise help find a solution. Even if they are not, doing this will help you show a court that you tried alternative options for resolving your issues before resorting to a lawsuit.

What Relevant State Authorities Should You Contact?

Another step you should take first before proceeding with a Long Island medical malpractice case is contacting the New York State Education Department or the New York State Office of Professional Medical Conduct. In addition to reinforcing that you went through the proper channels first before starting your claim, these organizations can sometimes help pressure negligent physicians into addressing their mistakes out of court or support your eventual lawsuit with evidence uncovered through their own investigations.

See Another Medical Professional

In order to successfully sue for malpractice, you will need to have a clear idea of exactly what harm you sustained through the malpractice and what effects it will have on you. If your original doctor refuses to or cannot correct their own mistake, seeking professional diagnosis and treatment from another doctor will be a key initial step to take in the early stages of a Long Island medical malpractice lawsuit.

Preserve All Your Medical Records and Bills

Finally, a crucial first step to take in your Long Island medical malpractice case is obtaining a thorough documentary record of the substandard care you received from the doctor you intend to sue, as well as comprehensive medical records detailing the care you have since received and the nature of your injury or illness. When it comes to recovering fairly for long-term losses, you will also want to have copies of any bills or invoices for medical services you received in relation to that injury or illness.

Call to Learn More About Initial Steps To Take in Your Long Island Medical Malpractice Lawsuit

One of the most important initial steps to take in a Long Island medical malpractice case is seeking help from an experienced legal professional who is ready to fight diligently for the restitution you need. Our team at Duffy & Duffy is here to provide you with support through each stage of the legal process.

We know how to hold negligent physicians accountable for the harm they have caused, as well as navigate around the common obstacles to fair financial recovery. Call us today to discuss your case.