What Is Primary Care Malpractice?

 Posted on July 03,2024 in Medical Malpractice

Primary care doctors are some of the most trusted physicians in Illinois. In addition to performing routine annual exams, these doctors are often the first to see patients for health concerns. However, when a primary care doctor neglects to properly provide care to his or her patients, he or she may cause serious injuries.

If you have suffered from an injury or illness due to your primary care doctor’s negligent care, you may have a medical malpractice case. An Illinois medical malpractice attorney can help you explore your legal options.

Understanding Primary Care Medical Malpractice

Primary care medical malpractice occurs when a primary care doctor fails to uphold the duty of care to patients. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as being overworked, poorly trained, or simply ignoring important patient information like test results and symptoms.

Common types of primary care medical malpractice include:

• Delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis

• Failure to follow up with patients or other medical staff

• Failure to refer to a specialist

• Failure to prescribe proper medications

• Failure to diagnose a life-threatening health condition

The above errors can result in serious consequences for patients, such as health conditions that worsen without treatment or become fatal. Patients may also suffer from prolonged pain, illness, or injury. In many cases, these prolonged injuries or illnesses can result in additional medical bills, as well as psychological trauma.

How Do I Pursue a Claim Against a Primary Care Provider?

Pursuing a medical malpractice claim against a primary care provider can be challenging, as you will need to prove that your injury was a result of your doctor’s negligent behavior. Gathering evidence for this is often difficult, as many offices and clinics will deny responsibility as much as possible.

In Illinois, you will need to file your claim within two years of the date you are injured or discover your injury, although certain circumstances can alter the normal statute of limitations. For example, if someone is a minor when injured, a lawsuit may be filed a maximum of eight years from the date of the malpractice that caused the injury, or until the person is 22. 

To start the claim process, collect as many details about your injury and your primary care doctor’s conduct as possible. Then, contact a knowledgeable lawyer with the details of your case. The sooner you receive legal guidance, the higher your chances of a successful claim outcome.

Contact a Rockford, IL Medical Malpractice Attorney

Medical malpractice cases are serious, and you may be dealing with traumatic injuries or permanent disability as a result of your doctor’s lack of proper care. An experienced Winnebago County, IL medical malpractice lawyer can help you pursue a claim against your doctor to recover compensation for your damages.

Our attorneys have a strong record of success with medical malpractice claims, and we will provide you with the compassionate, dedicated representation you deserve. Call Mannarino & Brasfield, A Division of Schwartz Injury Law at 815-215-7561 for a free consultation.