Atlanta Medication Error Lawyer

Let Our Firm Help You Recover Your Entitled Compensation

Prescription medications are designed to reduce pain and suffering, and they often do. However, when a healthcare professional makes a medication error — such as prescribing the wrong medication, giving the wrong dosage, or overlooking a potentially harmful interaction with another medication — rather than improving a person’s health, their negligence can make things worse and even lead to death. If you or a loved one has been affected by a medication error in Atlanta, GA, our experienced team at DGL Attorneys At Law is here to help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.

To schedule a free initial consultation, call (770) 404-8239 or contact us online today.

What is a Medication Error?

A medication error occurs when there is a failure in the medication treatment process that leads to inappropriate medication use or patient harm. This can include mistakes in prescribing, dispensing, or administering medication. Medication errors can occur at any stage of the medication management process, from the doctor's office to the pharmacy and ultimately to the patient's home. It is essential to recognize that medication errors can occur regardless of the healthcare provider's intentions, but they often stem from negligence, oversight, or systemic issues within healthcare facilities.

Medication errors can take many forms, and understanding these types is crucial for identifying and addressing the issue. Here are some of the most common types of medication errors:

• Prescription Errors: This type of error occurs when a healthcare provider prescribes the wrong medication or dosage, fails to consider a patient’s medical history, or does not provide clear instructions for the medication’s use.
• Dispensing Errors: These errors happen at the pharmacy level and may involve providing the wrong medication, incorrect dosage, or failing to label the medication properly.
• Administration Errors: This type of error occurs when the medication is given incorrectly, such as through the wrong route (e.g., oral vs. intravenous), or when a patient receives medication at the wrong time or frequency.
• Monitoring Errors: After medication is administered, it is essential for healthcare providers to monitor the patient for adverse effects or the effectiveness of the medication. Failing to do so can lead to serious complications.
• Patient Education Errors: Patients must understand how to take their medication correctly. If healthcare providers fail to provide adequate education about medication usage, patients may misuse their prescriptions.

Common Causes of Medication Errors

Several factors can contribute to medication errors in healthcare settings. Identifying these causes can help prevent future incidents and improve patient safety:

• Communication Failures: Miscommunication between healthcare providers, patients, and pharmacists can lead to medication errors. This can include illegible handwriting on prescriptions, lack of clarity in verbal instructions, or failure to share crucial patient information.
• High Workloads and Staffing Issues: Healthcare professionals often work under pressure, which can lead to mistakes. Insufficient staffing can exacerbate this issue, as providers may rush to complete their tasks, increasing the likelihood of errors.
• Inadequate Training: Healthcare professionals must stay current with best practices and medication protocols. Insufficient training or education can lead to mistakes in prescribing or administering medications.
• Complex Medication Regimens: Patients with multiple health issues may be prescribed numerous medications, increasing the risk of errors due to interactions or confusion over the correct dosages.
• System Failures: Inefficient healthcare systems, lack of standardized procedures, and outdated technology can contribute to the occurrence of medication errors.

Who is Liable for a Medication Error?

Determining liability in a medication error case can be complex and often involves multiple parties, including:

• Healthcare Providers: Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals may be held liable if they fail to adhere to the standard of care expected in their profession. This can include errors in prescribing, dispensing, or administering medications.
• Pharmacists: Pharmacists are responsible for ensuring that prescriptions are filled accurately. If they fail to catch a prescribing error or provide incorrect information, they may be liable for the resulting harm.
• Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes can be held liable if systemic issues or inadequate training contribute to medication errors.
• Manufacturers: In cases where a medication error results from a defective drug or inadequate labeling, the manufacturer may be held responsible.

How Can We Help You?

If you or a loved one has suffered from a medication error, it is essential to consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in medical malpractice cases. At DGL Attorneys At Law, we will:

• Evaluate Your Case: We will review the details of your situation, gather relevant medical records, and consult with medical experts to determine whether negligence played a role in the medication error.
• Gather Evidence: Building a strong case requires thorough documentation. We will collect evidence, including medical records, prescription information, and witness statements, to support your claim.
• Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may attempt to minimize their payouts. Our legal team will negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Represent You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.

Contact us today at (770) 404-8239 to learn how our firm can help you.