West Des Moines Medical Malpractice Attorneys

Anyone who is wrongly injured by a medical professional, whether it is you, your family members, your friends, or anyone else, deserves to be compensated for that injury.

The good news is that the RSH Legal team is comprised of specialized experts in medical malpractice. Don’t let an inexperienced team elsewhere ruin your chance at justice. Let RSH Legal fight for fairness on your behalf.

West Des Moines, being part of the great Des Moines Metro area, offers a wide range of healthcare options in Iowa. With locations such as MercyOne, UnityPoint, Iowa Heart, and the Iowa Clinic, along with a large selection of dentists and pharmacies to choose from, there is a great deal of choice in West Des Moines healthcare. But regardless of where you seek treatment, there is always a risk of a serious injury resulting from a medical error. If such an error occurs, we want to help you.

Understanding Medical Malpractice in West Des Moines: Protecting Your Rights

Medical malpractice is a deeply concerning reality in the healthcare industry in West Des Moines. As patients, we place immense trust in the hands of medical professionals. However, when that trust is broken due to negligence, the consequences can be life-altering.

In essence, medical malpractice is a violation of the standard of care owed to a patient by their healthcare provider. It involves missed diagnoses that rob you of a fighting chance, surgical blunders that leave you battling complications, or medication errors that trigger severe allergic reactions. It is when healthcare professionals falter in their duty, resulting in harm to you.

Forms of Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice in West Des Moines can take various forms, each presenting its unique challenges. The trauma of experiencing childbirth injuries due to negligent prenatal care or delivery mistakes is immense. These types of injuries are lifelong and life-altering. Similarly, the aftermath of surgical errors or anesthesia miscalculations can significantly impact your health and quality of life.

If you find yourself a victim of such negligence, you have the right to seek justice. Filing a medical malpractice claim with the help of a specialized lawyer is not just about pursuing compensation; it’s about holding the responsible parties accountable and hopefully ensuring that others don’t suffer the same fate.

Your Attorney Manages Your Case

However, navigating the intricate maze of medical malpractice law can be challenging. This is where enlisting the aid of a seasoned medical malpractice lawyer becomes indispensable. They can help you understand the nuances of your case, gather compelling evidence, and tirelessly fight for your rights.

In conclusion, as patients, it is crucial to understand what medical malpractice is and the profound impact it can have on our lives. If you feel that your trust in your healthcare provider has been shattered by negligence, take action. Reach out to a legal expert and make a stand. You owe it to yourself, and you may also be protecting future patients from experiencing similar negligence.

The Role of the Statute of Limitations

In West Des Moines medical malpractice cases, the law imposes a time limit, known as the ‘statute of limitations,’ within which a lawsuit can be filed. The clock usually starts ticking from the point the malpractice occurred. However, due to the often-latent nature of medical injuries, many patients are unaware of the harm when it occurs.

Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations

Fortunately, the law provides some exceptions to the standard statute of limitations. This is where the ‘Discovery Rule’ comes in. Under this rule, the statute of limitations may begin not at the moment the malpractice occurred, but when the patient discovered or reasonably should have discovered the injury. It’s important to note that this exception has been narrowly interpreted in West Des Moines and is not widely available.

Additionally, other exceptions may apply in certain cases. For instance, the clock might be ‘tolled’ or paused for minors or incapacitated individuals.

Building a Case for an Older Injury

Pursuing a medical malpractice claim for an older injury poses many additional challenges, but it is not impossible. The role of a skilled attorney in navigating the complexities and proving negligence, despite the time elapsed, is critical.

In conclusion, while older medical injuries may complicate the process, it is essential to remember that a claim may still be possible. If you suspect that you’re a victim of past medical malpractice, don’t allow the fear of time passed to deter you. Reach out to a seasoned medical malpractice attorney who can guide you through your options and fight for your rights.

Who Can Be Sued in a West Des Moines Medical Malpractice Lawsuit?

Medical malpractice, unfortunately, can be a devastating reality for many patients. Instances of negligence in the West Des Moines healthcare sector can cause lasting damage and significant distress. One vital question that arises in these situations is: Who can be held accountable? The potential defendants in a medical malpractice lawsuit are not limited to doctors but extend to various individuals and entities.

Healthcare Providers

A common misconception is that only physicians are liable in medical malpractice suits. While doctors can be held accountable for negligence, other healthcare providers can also face similar consequences. Nurses, for example, who provide direct care to patients, can be liable for mistakes made in administering treatment or medication. Other healthcare professionals, such as dentists, pharmacists, and therapists, can also be sued if their negligence leads to patient harm.

Hospitals and Medical Facilities

Beyond individual practitioners, institutions like hospitals and medical facilities can also face legal action. Under the principle of vicarious liability, these institutions can be held responsible for the actions of their employees. Furthermore, they can be sued directly for issues like negligent hiring practices or inadequate staffing, both of which can contribute to patient harm.

Pharmaceutical Companies

Pharmaceutical companies have a responsibility to produce safe and effective drugs. They can be held accountable if their negligence in creating a defective drug leads to patient harm. Additionally, if a company fails to provide proper labeling or adequate warnings about the drug’s potential side effects, it can also face liability.

Medical Device Manufacturers

Similarly, manufacturers of medical devices can be sued if their products cause harm. This can include cases where the device is defective or if the company failed to warn doctors and patients about potential risks associated with the device’s use.

In conclusion, medical malpractice suits can involve a variety of potential defendants, depending on the specifics of the case. It’s crucial to engage professional legal help to thoroughly investigate and identify all responsible parties in a medical malpractice lawsuit. The pursuit of justice in medical malpractice cases is not limited to suing doctors but extends to all individuals and entities that may have contributed to the patient’s harm.

RSH Legal Handles Medical Malpractice Cases In West Des Moines & Throughout Iowa

If you’ve been seriously injured due to medical negligence or malpractice, there is no reason not to call RSH Legal right away. Your call is free of charge and free of obligation. If we take your case, you won’t pay anything until we win. Call us today at 319-409-6575.

Tim Semelroth

Board-Certified Trial Attorney

Pressley Henningsen

AV-Rated Trial Attorney