Cardiovascular Patients At Increased Risk For Medical Malpractice In Washington State

Each February, American Heart Month calls attention to cardiovascular diseases and the steps needed to keep your heart healthy. Preventative care and prompt treatment are key in preventing potentially life-threatening impacts. However, cardiovascular patients often face challenges when it comes to getting quality medical care and are at increased risk for medical malpractice in Washington State. Our Issaquah medical malpractice attorney explains common medical errors to be alert for and how to protect your rights in a claim.

Medical Mistakes In Washington State That Put Cardiovascular Patients At Risk

Cardiovascular disease, also known as heart disease, represents a group of potentially life-threatening conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It includes heart attacks and strokes, as well as high blood pressure, hypertension, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, and coronary artery disease (CAD).

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) warns that heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, claiming a life every 33 seconds. Unfortunately, cardiology, which focuses on treating heart disease, ranks among the top three specialties for malpractice-related claims. Medical errors that put heart patients at risk include:

• Ignoring risk factors, such as a family history of cardiovascular disease;
• Failing to run diagnostic tests or refer to specialists;
• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis due to not recognizing symptoms;
• Prescribing the wrong medication to heart patients or at improper dosages;
• Surgical errors during procedures like bypass surgery or stent placement;
• Failure to monitor a patient’s condition post-surgery or during treatment;
• Downplaying symptoms and failing to provide potentially life-threatening conditions in local hospital emergency rooms.

These types of medical errors seriously endanger patients, increasing the risk of severe complications and potentially fatal outcomes.

Protecting Your Rights In A Washington State Medical Malpractice Claim

American Heart Month raises awareness of cardiovascular risks and the steps patients need to take to protect their health. Quality medical care is a top priority, but medical malpractice in Washington State is unfortunately common.

To reduce the risks and protect your rights in a claim, take steps to protect yourself. These include:

• Be informed about your condition, the potential risks, and standard treatment protocols.
• Ask your doctor questions about your diagnosis, any treatment options, lifestyle changes, and medications;
• If your doctor doubts your symptoms or otherwise hesitates in providing care, seek a second opinion;
• Document all medical appointments, treatments, and communications with your healthcare providers.

Contact Our Issaquah Medical Malpractice Attorney To Request A Consultation

Cardiovascular disease represents a group of serious health conditions that can prove life-threatening. Unfortunately, medical malpractice is common among patients and can have devastating consequences.

If you or a loved one suffers harm due to medical misdiagnosis or other errors while seeking care, contact Injury Law Group NW. We stand up to cardiologists and other providers and fight to get you the maximum amount in a claim. To get the caring, comprehensive legal service you need during this difficult time, request a consultation today with our Issaquah medical malpractice attorney.

Sources:

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11374185/

heart.org/en/around-the-aha/february-is-american-heart-month