Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider acts in a way that a reasonably competent and skilled professional would not. While this definition is intentionally broad—to cover a wide range of negligent or reckless behaviors—it can also make it difficult for patients to know whether their situation qualifies as malpractice.

Medical malpractice can take many forms, including:

• Poor Communication: A doctor or medical professional fails to clearly explain a diagnosis, treatment plan, or risks, or leaves out critical information that affects the patient’s understanding and decision-making.

• Unapproved Deviations from Treatment: A healthcare provider strays from the agreed-upon treatment plan without the patient’s knowledge or consent. This often occurs during surgeries or procedures, leaving patients feeling shocked or betrayed by changes they didn’t authorize.

• Negligent Mistakes: Not all errors are intentional, but even unintentional mistakes—such as incorrect diagnoses, dosage errors, or procedural oversights—can cause serious harm. In the medical field, even small errors can have life-threatening consequences.

• Patient Bias and Substandard Care: Sometimes, a provider’s personal biases lead to dismissive or inadequate care. For example, a woman experiencing severe pelvic pain may be told her symptoms are exaggerated or dismissed altogether. If a thorough exam could have uncovered a serious issue requiring emergency care, this type of neglect could be grounds for a medical malpractice claim.

If you believe you’ve been harmed due to a medical professional’s actions—or inaction—it’s important to speak with a medical malpractice attorney. They can help you understand whether your experience meets the legal standards for a malpractice claim and guide you toward justice.