Award-Winning Medical Malpractice Attorneys Serving Indianapolis

Here are some statistics that provide insight into the frequency of medical malpractice and the challenges of pursuing such cases:

• National perspective: Medical errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States. Estimates suggest that around 225,000 people die each year from some form of medical malpractice. Despite this staggering number, only about 2% of victims choose to pursue legal action. This low percentage can be attributed to a lack of awareness about legal rights and the daunting challenges associated with proving malpractice.
• Medication errors: According to The Institute of Medicine, medication errors affect approximately 1.5 million patients annually. These errors can range from the minor to the severe, affecting patient health and, in some cases, leading to death.
• Surgeons and litigation: Data from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics indicates that about half of all medical malpractice cases involve surgeons, underscoring the risks associated with surgical procedures.
• Repeat offenders: Interestingly, a small percentage of doctors are responsible for a disproportionate number of malpractice payouts. According to the National Practitioner Data Bank, 5% of doctors account for 54% of all payouts, highlighting a potential issue with repeat offenders within the medical community.

Indiana-Specific Statistics

• Annual claims: On average, around 940 claims of medical malpractice are filed each year in Indiana. However, the number of claims that result in payouts ranges between 130 and 175 annually, as reported by the Indiana Patient’s Compensation Fund.
• Cap on damages: Indiana has a cap of $1.8 million on the total damages that a victim can pursue in a medical malpractice claim for injuries occurring after June 30, 2019. This cap can influence the decision to pursue a lawsuit due to potential limitations on financial recovery.

These statistics highlight the complexities of medical malpractice both nationally and in Indiana. They underscore the importance of patient safety and the need for a legal framework that adequately supports victims of medical negligence.

If you suspect that you or a loved one has been affected by medical malpractice, it is crucial to seek knowledgeable legal counsel. At Langer & Langer, we are committed to providing the support and legal knowledge necessary to address these serious concerns.