When you seek care at a trusted hospital like Northeast Georgia Medical Center, you expect to receive safe, professional and competent treatment. Unfortunately, medical errors can occur in the emergency department(ER), during surgery, or even during routine care. When that trust is broken due to a preventable error by a trusted local provider, the effects can take a physical, emotional, and financial toll.
If you or a loved one were a patient and believe you experienced medical malpractice at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC), you’re not alone. And you do have options.
Here’s what to do next.
- Prioritize Your Health and Safety
If you’re still experiencing ongoing pain, symptoms or complications that suggest something went wrong during your visit to NGMC, seek immediate medical attention right away. It’s okay to ask for a second opinion or request a transfer to another facility if you feel trust has been lost in your provider. Your health comes first.
Trust your instincts. Delay of care can lead to worsening conditions or limit your legal options. Never hesitate to advocate for yourself or your loved one.
- Request Your Complete Medical Records from NGMC
Accessing your medical records is one of the most important steps you can take after a medical error. Georgia law gives you the right to access your complete medical records at hospitals like Northeast Georgia Medical Center. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 gives patients the right to obtain copies of most medical records, electronically or on paper. These include doctor’s notes, medical test results, lab reports and billing information.
- Request records from all departments involved, including emergency care, surgery, nursing, labs, and radiology.
- Request both written notes and any digital files (such as scans or test results).
- Take and keep your own notes includingdates of care, names of providers and anything unusual that happened during treatment.
These records may be the difference in your case if you decide to take legal action.
- Speak with a Medical Malpractice Attorney
Not every poor medical outcome is malpractice. However, when a provider fails to meet the standard of care and that failure causes harm, it may be considered medical negligence.
An experienced medical malpractice attorney can help determine whether you have a case against Northeast Georgia Medical Center and explain your legal options. Medical malpractice law is highly complex, and it’s important to know the specific requirements in Georgia for filing a claim:
- Expert affidavit: Georgia law requires an affidavit from a qualified medical expert outlining how the care you received deviated from the accepted standard.
- Statute of limitations: Generally, you have two years from the date of the injury or death to file a claim. In some cases, this deadline may be extended, but waiting too long could result in losing the right to pursue justice.
- Special rules for ER and minors: Emergency room care and cases involving children follow different legal standards, which your attorney can help you navigate.
Medical malpractice law is complex, so having the right legal team can make all the difference.
Special Note: Your Claim May Settle Out of Court
While some medical malpractice cases go to trial, some are resolved through settlements. Hospitals and healthcare providers typically prefer to settle confidentially rather than face a public trial. An experienced medical malpractice lawyer can evaluate the strength of your claim and handle negotiations on your behalf.
The Toll of Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice doesn’t just cause physical harm. It can also take a significant emotional and psychological toll. Many patients and families experience trauma, grief, anxiety and even depression.
No one expects to suffer harm at the hands of the people entrusted with their care. If a preventable error at NGMC caused serious harm, you have the right to demand accountability. Taking action protects you and also brings attention to possible systemic issues that could affect other patients.
If you or a loved one experienced medical malpractice at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, you deserve answers. At Bell Law Firm, we offer free consultations to answer any questions you have and evaluate your potential case. Contact us today to explore your options.