Gambill Law OfficeGambill Law Office2024-02-05T11:39:12Zhttps://www.wcgfirm.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203632/2024/02/cropped-Fav-Icon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497862023-08-28T19:54:47Z2023-08-28T19:54:47ZResearch shows that medical errors are common
Researchers find it challenging to accurately identify the total number of medical errors that occur every year, as many cases go unreported. However, they can look at the reported cases and then extrapolate that to reach reasonable conclusions. Experts estimate that as many as 5% of all medical patients seeking care experience either a failure to diagnose or a misdiagnosis each year in the United States. Doctors either do not diagnose them at all or diagnose them with the wrong condition, both of which are mistakes with medical consequences.
Those mistakes can be devastating for the patient and could result in a far worse overall prognosis or even in someone dying. Somewhere between 40,000 and 80,000 medical patients each year lose their lives because of diagnostic mistakes made by the professionals providing their care. Millions of others may have to undergo more invasive and expensive treatment or suffer needlessly for weeks before they uncover and resolve the diagnostic mistake.
Diagnostic failings are a top form of malpractice
Whether a doctor reaches an entirely erroneous diagnosis or they fail to diagnose someone at all, a diagnostic error could very easily constitute actionable medical malpractice. Patients harmed by a doctor's inaccurate conclusions could file a claim against the individual practitioner or their employer. Families who have lost a loved one due to diagnostic errors can also potentially initiate medical malpractice lawsuits in response to their family tragedies.
Realizing that diagnostic errors are common and largely preventable may help people take action when a doctor fails to provide them with appropriate care.]]>On Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497852023-08-17T18:03:56Z2023-08-17T18:03:56ZAfter deciding you want a divorce, the conversation will not end with your spouse and children. You need to inform other loved ones about your decision, including your parents. Of course, how you tell your parents will differ from the talk you had or will have with other parties.Here is how you can tell them:
Meet them
If possible, you should go to your parent's house or invite them for a coffee date to inform them about the divorce. If not, you can call them – make sure you have adequate time and are in a quiet place.
Give them details you are comfortable sharing
Your parents were invested in your marriage. Thus, it will be fair to tell them why you want the divorce. Besides, they can support you effectively during and after the process when they understand your choice. However, you don’t need to give them too many details - only what you are comfortable sharing.
Ask for support
It helps to actively ask your parents for the emotional support you might need. Let them know you are going through a hard time. You don't need to hide your true feelings from your parents.
Set boundaries
When informing your parents about the divorce, consider setting boundaries. They should know you wish the conversation to surround the divorce. You should state the matters you don't want to discuss or, at least, you are not ready to. Your parents will be concerned about your future. They may ask questions regarding matters you haven't considered yet, including property division, child custody and your financial situation. And this can make you anxious. Therefore, inform them about your wishes earlier in the conversation.If you are going through a divorce, you should obtain adequate information to make informed decisions throughout the process.
]]>On Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497842023-07-24T13:39:05Z2023-07-24T13:39:05ZYour marital home is likely one of your biggest assets, so it’s no surprise that a battle over it might ensue if you divorce. This is especially true if one party is emotionally attached to the home.
There are a few options you should consider for the home. You and your ex will have to work together to determine which of these is best for your divorce. Here are the three most common choices:
1. Sell the home and split the proceeds
Many people opt to sell their homes. You and your ex would likely split whatever is left after the mortgage is paid off. You must ensure that you have an accurate appraisal of the property. Both adults should agree on the offer that’s ultimately accepted.
2. One spouse buys out the other
One party can buy out the other party’s share of the home. This can be done in cash or through some shifting of other assets that are part of the property division. An accurate appraisal is necessary to ensure both parties receive a fair deal if this is how the marital home is handled.
3. Delay the sale until later
Some people opt to delay the sale of the marital home until their children are adults. This enables the parent with primary custody to remain in the home with them. The kids won’t have as big of a transition during the divorce because they don’t have to move from the home they know.Remember, the home is only one part of what you’ll have to handle when you’re going through property division. Working with someone familiar with your case provides you with the assistance you need to make the best decision for you.]]>On Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497832023-07-22T10:23:09Z2023-07-22T10:22:53ZDivorce is one of the most stressful life experiences you can ever go through. Unfortunately, if the relationship is broken beyond repair, you may have no option but end the marriage.
However, divorce is a legal process. As such, what you do before, during and after your divorce is important. Here are three other mistakes you need to steer clear of during and after your divorce.
1. Letting emotions get the better of you
There is no doubt that divorce can be extremely emotional, especially if you did everything in your power to save your marriage. However, letting your emotions take control can be a huge mistake. Emotions can lead you to make costly mistakes regarding aspects of the divorce like child custody and property division.
2. Turning children into spies
Kids can be wonderful agents for covert operations because they attract almost zero suspicion. However, turning to your child to collect information about your spouse or ex is never a good idea. Besides the potential of hurting your child’s perception and relationship with the other parent, this could also impact your custody case if your spouse finds out. The same is true of using children to communicate with the other party.
3. Discussing your divorce on social media
Social media is a huge part of life these days. We take to social media to share our accomplishments with our social media “families.” We also take to social media to vent our frustrations. If you are going through a divorce, however, talking about it on social media can be a costly mistake. In fact, you are better off avoiding social media altogether during the divorce. Divorce can be difficult. However, it is in your best interest that you maintain your cool. Knowing the mistakes to avoid during divorce can help ensure that you realize a just outcome for your divorce case.
]]>On Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497572023-06-30T13:32:50Z2023-06-30T13:32:50Z
Prolonged labor
Difficult delivery
Improper use of medical interventions
Birth injuries can range from mild to severe, and their effects can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances.
What’s the relationship between birth injuries and paralysis?
Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part or all of the body, typically accompanied by a loss of sensation. While birth injuries can have severe consequences, including long-term disabilities, it is important to note that not all birth injuries result in paralysis. The occurrence of paralysis depends on the specific type and severity of the injury.
Brachial plexus injuries, such as Erb’s palsy, can cause weakness or loss of motion in the affected arm. However, they rarely result in complete paralysis. Many infants with brachial plexus injuries can regain normal function or experience significant improvement with proper medical intervention, physical therapy and time.
Cerebral palsy, while often associated with birth injuries, does not always lead to paralysis. The effects of cerebral palsy can vary widely, ranging from mild muscle coordination issues to more severe motor impairments. Paralysis is more commonly observed in cases where cerebral palsy affects the lower extremities or the entire body. However, it is essential to remember that each case is unique, and the severity of paralysis can differ significantly.
While some birth injuries can have long-term consequences, including paralysis, it is important to remember that not all birth injuries lead to such outcomes. Understanding the different types of birth injuries and their potential effects is crucial for informed decision-making both in terms of prevention and response to any injury that does occur. For example, parents who suspect that their child’s injuries have resulted from substandard medical care may benefit from seeking legal guidance about any compensation to which they may be entitled.]]>On Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497562023-06-26T16:30:11Z2023-06-28T16:27:26ZYou may see road signs on the interstate saying that drivers need to move over into the right lane unless they are passing. That is always how the interstate highway system has worked. The reason for the signs, however, is that there are numerous drivers who will camp out in the left lane even though they are driving slowly and not passing anyone.
Some drivers are completely oblivious to the problems that this can cause. Why is it an issue? Here are three potential reasons:
1. It can cause unnecessary lane changes
First and foremost, someone who is driving slowly in the left lane forces drivers behind them to change lanes unexpectedly. They have to hit their brakes, and they may swerve suddenly. Lane changes increase the odds of an accident and should be avoided when possible.
2. Emergency vehicles can have trouble getting through
Drivers who are in the left lane can also cause problems for emergency vehicles that need to get through traffic. Even in heavy traffic, if everyone has an opportunity to pull over to the right, this leaves an open lane for ambulances, firetrucks and more.
3. It can add to traffic congestion
Finally, someone who drives slowly in the left lane just causes more traffic congestion. Everyone else has to slow down to go around them, or they get stuck next to someone going the same speed in the right lane – and no one can pass. Traffic congestion and differences in speed are often reasons for rear-end car accidents.Even though it’s the law that drivers should move over, many of them fail to do so. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by one of these negligent drivers, you may be able to seek financial compensation.]]>On Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497532023-06-19T19:11:25Z2023-06-19T19:11:25Zyour doctor listens to you?
Making the right diagnosis
Doctors have years of experience, as well as scientific tests, that help them to reach a diagnosis. It is vital that any diagnosis is accurate, otherwise you will not get the treatment you need or you will be subjected to treatment that you don’t need. Part of diagnosing a condition involves listening to a patient describe how they feel. This step cannot be skipped. Nobody knows your body better than you, and every piece of the puzzle is needed to come up with an accurate diagnosis.
Decreasing risks
Treating your condition involves effective communication between you and your doctor, nurses, receptionists, pharmacists and other medical staff. If this chain of communication breaks down, then it’s almost inevitable that an error will occur further down the line. For example, if you inform your doctor that you are allergic to certain substances, they need to listen. If they don’t, then a pharmacist could end up writing you a script for a product that will harm you rather than help.
Doctors owe you a legal duty of care, and this includes listening to you properly. If you have been let down and suffered harm as a result, then you may be entitled to financial compensation. Seek legal guidance to find out whether or not you have grounds upon which to file a valid medical malpractice case.
]]>On Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497522023-05-31T18:42:11Z2023-05-31T18:42:11ZAfter divorcing with children, you’ll have to work out child custody with your spouse. A child custody plan can help determine what rights each parents have over their children after divorce.
It may help to learn a bit about child custody plans before you make one. Here are a few questions you may have:
1. What is physical custody?
Physical custody is the living arrangements for children after their parents’ divorce. In other words, physical custody determines each parent’s responsibilities to house children and where the children will live daily. Physical custody may also include the decisions relating to children’s daily routines, such as meals, clothing and bedtime.
2. What is legal custody?
Legal custody is often seen as more important than physical custody because it can help determine the long-term decisions about the upbringing of children. Legal custody may include aspects of a child’s medical decisions, dietary restrictions, religious upbringing and education.
3. How are physical and legal custody determined?
Courts generally believe that it’s in the best interest of the children when parents share physical and legal custody. In some cases, parents have the right to fight for sole custody and limit how much responsibility the other parent has.
4. Do mothers always get full custody rights?
It’s often believed that mothers will always get the final word when deciding on child custody plans. But, fathers will often have as much of a chance to have custody rights as the mother.
5. How is visitation determined?
Parents can work out how visitation works. Most people try to plan around their school or work schedules when determining custody. Many visitation plans will rotate days or weeks when each parent will see their children.
6. How can you make the best child custody plan?
Creating a child custody plan can be difficult without understanding your legal rights. To help ensure you’re making the best decisions for your children and optimizing a custody plan that works for everyone, you may need to reach out for legal help.]]>On Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497492023-05-17T18:47:36Z2023-05-17T18:47:36ZYour spouse informing you they want a divorce can be devastating. However, the chances are you may have known this conversation was coming - you may have noticed a few signs. But whether you were prepared for such news or not, this may be challenging. But what should you do next?Here are three things to consider doing:
Be the best version of yourself
Your spouse asking for a divorce does not mean they gave up on the marriage or are not hurting. They may also be having a hard time. Thus, consider being the best version of yourself. Listen to their concerns, answer their questions respectfully and express your voice. You should not act out of anger. Stay calm and be careful about what you say or how you act.
Don't engage in arguments
You and your spouse may need to figure out crucial things after having the conversation. For example, who will move out, which divorce option will you take or who will stay with the kids? You may agree on matters or can have arguments. If you disagree, it will be best to tell them you will have the discussion another time, or you don't need to get the answers to everything immediately. You should not argue with your spouse because this can be used against you later.
Obtain more information
Information is key when going through a divorce. You should know what to expect and how to protect your interests. Therefore, you need to obtain adequate information from specialists, online platforms and loved ones who have gone through divorce. How you respond to your spouse telling you they want a divorce can determine the direction of your case. You may need to get legal help to make informed decisions about your divorce.]]>On Behalf of Gambill Law Officehttps://www.wcgfirm.com/?p=497182023-05-08T08:00:12Z2023-05-07T09:29:51ZHealth Affairs.
Focus groups of doctors yielded some disturbing admissions
Researchers discussed the challenges presented by disabled patients with focus groups comprised of physicians. Multiple doctors said that they found ways of avoiding treating them without risking a discrimination lawsuit, including telling them they no longer practiced medicine.
Those disabled patients who make it into the office sometimes don’t get farther than the weigh-in process. Doctors in the focus groups confessed to sending patients in wheelchairs to get weighed at a grain elevator, cattle processing plant or zoo. The doctors’ admissions are confirmed by anecdotal patient stories. One man said he’s been told by doctors, “I really don’t know what to do with you. Maybe you should go elsewhere.”
It’s not just patients with mobility restrictions that doctors may consider problematic. One complained that he had to pay a sign language interpreter to come in whenever he saw a deaf patient.
Disabled patients may be misdiagnosed based on false assumptions
People with disabilities need preventative health care and treatment for medical conditions that have nothing to do with their disabilities. Unfortunately, some doctors seem incapable of providing that. Some may attribute virtually any symptom a patient presents with to their disability, whether should be or not.
They may not consider certain diagnoses because of misconceptions they have about disabled people. In the Oscar-nominated documentary Crip Camp, a woman with cerebral palsy says that a surgeon removed her healthy appendix because it didn’t occur to him that her symptoms were caused by a venereal disease.
If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to the negligence of a doctor, it’s wise to determine whether you have grounds to file a medical malpractice case. Seeking experienced guidance can be a good first step toward securing justice and compensation.]]>