A doctor fails to notice obvious signs of illness. A surgeon operates on the wrong body part. A hospital birthing team fails to ensure a baby has adequate oxygen during birth. A nurse doesn’t properly care for a patient so that health-damaging infection is avoided.
These are some examples of medical malpractice that can severely injure Springboro residents who go to doctors and hospitals for medical treatment. While these incidents are relatively rare, when they do take place, it is imperative that the injured party receives the full compensation that they deserve.
Many people who have been injured by a negligent doctor or nurse while in a hospital — or who have seen loved ones suffer — wonder what types of compensation are available to people injured in cases of medical malpractice. Here in Ohio, there are three different types of compensation.
- Compensatory damages: this type of financial recovery compensates you for medical expenses and lost wages due to the injury.
- Non-economic damages: this is what is known as compensation for pain and suffering. It can also include emotional and psychological distress.
- Punitive damages: this type of compensation is awarded in order to punish the responsible physician, surgeon, nurse or hospital. More than one of the aforementioned medical professionals and facilities might be involved in a malpractice suit.
The above points are very basic ones from the Ohio Bar Association that we hope give you a broad overview of the types of compensation available.
An experienced Springboro medical malpractice attorney can help you understand your legal options in your unique situation. An effective lawyer will also explain the types of compensation for which you might be eligible and what the next steps should be in your pursuit of justice for your injuries or your loved one’s injuries.