However, the consequences can be devastating when that trust is violated due to errors, negligence, or incompetence. At Fowler Pickert Eisenmenger Norfleet, our compassionate medical malpractice attorneys understand what a trying time this can be, and want to ensure you have all the right information to make the best decisions if you need to bring a midwife malpractice lawsuit. Here’s what you should know.
Can a Midwife Commit Medical Malpractice in Missouri?
Certified midwives and nurse-midwives are expected to adhere to the same standards of care as physicians and other health care professionals. This means providing competent and diligent care throughout pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum. If a midwife deviates from this standard of care—either through negligence, incompetence, or recklessness—and it results in harm to the patient, they can be held accountable for medical malpractice.
Missouri midwife malpractice can result in serious injuries to both mother and baby, leaving families grappling with emotional, physical, and financial burdens.
- For the baby, birth injuries such as cerebral palsy, Erb's palsy, or brain damage can occur due to oxygen deprivation or trauma during delivery.
- For the mother, complications such as postpartum hemorrhage, uterine rupture, or pelvic floor injuries can have long-term implications for her health and well-being.
It’s essential for families to be aware of these risks and seek appropriate medical assistance and legal guidance from a Missouri midwife malpractice attorney if they suspect negligence has occurred. Understanding the legal implications of midwife negligence empowers families to take appropriate action to seek justice and compensation for any harm suffered. By being informed and proactive, families can hold negligent midwives accountable and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
What to Do if You or Your Baby Are Hurt by Midwife Malpractice
Taking immediate action to protect your health and legal rights is critical. Here's what you should do if you suspect midwife malpractice has occurred:
Get Prompt Medical Attention
Your first priority should be to ensure the safety and well-being of you and your baby. Seek medical attention from a qualified health care provider as soon as possible. An expedient evaluation can help diagnose and treat any injuries or complications resulting from midwife malpractice.
Document Evidence of Negligence
Keep detailed records of your medical treatment, including appointments, procedures, and any of the midwife’s conversations with your health care providers. Take note of any signs or symptoms of injury or complications experienced by you or your baby. Also preserve physical evidence, such as medical records, ultrasound images, or photographs of injuries.
Consult a Kansas City Medical Malpractice Lawyer
It's essential to seek guidance from a skilled medical malpractice lawyer in Kansas City. At Fowler Pickert Eisenmenger Norfleet, a knowledgeable attorney from our team will evaluate your case, help you understand your legal rights, and provide personalized advice on the best course of action. Your lawyer advocates for your interests, communicates with insurance companies, and navigates the legal process on your behalf.
Understand the Statute of Limitations
In Missouri, a statute of limitations dictates the time frame within which you must file a medical malpractice claim. Generally, you’ll have two years from the date of the alleged malpractice to file a claim. While this might seem like a long time, delaying legal action could be a mistake.
Possible Damages in Midwife Malpractice Cases
In Missouri midwife malpractice cases, victims may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages to compensate for their losses. They include:
- Medical expenses for treatment related to the malpractice
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Future medical care expenses.
Parents may also seek compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the malpractice. Our experienced medical malpractice attorneys will assess the full extent of damages and build a strong case for fair compensation.
Why You Need a Kansas City Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Navigating a medical malpractice case—especially midwife malpractice—warrants legal guidance. The Kansas City medical malpractice lawyers at Fowler Pickert Eisenmenger Norfleet bring invaluable knowledge of state laws, procedural requirements, and courtroom strategies essential for pursuing a successful claim. These attorneys deeply understand the complexities involved in proving negligence, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies. They also have access to a network of medical experts who can provide crucial testimony to support your case.
By enlisting the services of a skilled lawyer, you gain a powerful advocate who will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure fair compensation for your injuries and losses. With their guidance, you can confidently understand the legal process, knowing that your case is in capable hands.
