Over the past few months, Pennsylvania residents may have noticed changes in the way they are receiving medical care. Many practices have begun to offer telehealth services. These technological innovations can be a convenient way for doctors and patients to keep in touch remotely, saving a patient a trip to the office to see a doctor or therapist in person. While certainly, these new innovations can be helpful, patients should be aware that medical professionals are preparing themselves to deal with what may be an influx of medical malpractice cases.
For example, patients may not be aware that remote communication, like video chats or email, could increase the risk of a data breach that could make a patient the victim of identity theft. Additionally, it may be more difficult for a medical professional to accurately diagnose a malady or symptom, or be aware of an interaction causes by a prescribed medication that could cause harm to a patient. Sometimes, a server error or other technological malfunction could result in a patient missing an important session with his or her doctor.
Even if a medical professional does his or her best to provide an excellent level of care, telehealth is relatively new and far from flawless. Even a simple error in record keeping could result in serious injury to a patient. Currently doctors and therapists nationwide are warning employees to be vigilant to prevent such mistakes. It is important for patients to be likewise aware of the potential dangers they may face as a result of using telehealth services.
If a Pennsylvania patient is concerned that he or she has become the victim of medical malpractice, it may be a good idea to explore options for legal recourse. An attorney that has experience handling medical malpractice cases can be a steadfast ally in such cases. An attorney can help a client seek justice and work toward a verdict that reflects the suffering endured by a victim, and hold the party at fault legally responsible for the mistake that occurred.