As the coronavirus pandemic has swept across the United States, we are facing significant disruptions to our daily lives. Many people wonder how COVID-19 is affecting medical care, both for the patient who has the virus and those who do not. At Colucci, Colucci & Marcus, P.C., our Boston, MA, legal malpractice lawyers want to discuss what types of cases may arise as a result of COVID-19.
There are various scenarios in which medical malpractice may occur during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. While we understand the medical workers are risking their lives each day right now, we should still be on the lookout for the following:
There has been much debate and consternation over testing availability for those suspected of having COVID-19. Due to a lack of available tests, many people with coronavirus symptoms are not being tested. This has led to people being sent home without treatment, even though they may very well have COVID-19.
Even those who have been found to have COVID-19 may not receive the care they deserve. This could be due to an inadequate number of healthcare professionals, a lack of medications, or a lack of proper healthcare equipment.
The healthcare system has been overwhelmed by coronavirus patients. However, this does not mean that other non-coronavirus medical emergencies should take a backseat. With this pandemic ongoing, it may be the case that many hospital patients receive inadequate care due to a lack of trained health professionals to help every patient.
Due to the shortage of healthcare professionals during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many physicians and other medical professionals are taking on roles outside of their specialties. While this may be necessary for the direst of circumstances, this should only happen when absolutely necessary. In most situations, both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients should be treated by an adequately trained medical professional.
There are reports that some medical providers are adopting untested treatment plans or are using hastily-designed patient care equipment. There are also reports of medical professionals using medications not designed for COVID-19. Currently, there is no cure or vaccine for this type of coronavirus.
Our firm understands that these are extraordinary circumstances and that there are many unknowns related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, if you or somebody you care about has been injured or become ill due to the negligence of a medical provider, seek legal assistance today.
At Colucci, Colucci & Marcus, P.C., we understand that the coronavirus pandemic is affecting everybody right now, but we must still hold negligent providers responsible for their actions. Our team will work to secure any compensation you may be entitled to, including coverage of your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering damages, and more. When you need a Boston medical malpractice attorney, you can contact us for a free consultation of your case by clicking here or by calling 617-917-3917.