As telemedicine becomes an integral part of healthcare, providing access to medical services from the comfort of one’s home, it also introduces new challenges and potential for errors that can result in patient harm. Kellum Law Firm, P.C., with offices in Jackson and Port Gibson, Mississippi, is at the forefront of addressing these unique challenges, ensuring that victims of telemedicine errors receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Understanding Telemedicine and Its Challenges
Telemedicine involves the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients through telecommunications technology. This method of healthcare delivery has expanded rapidly, especially highlighted during the global health crises, facilitating access to medical care while reducing the need for in-person visits. However, this convenience also brings complexities, particularly in maintaining the standard of care expected in traditional medical settings.
Common Telemedicine Errors
- Misdiagnosis and Delayed Diagnosis: The limited physical examination possible via telemedicine can lead to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, particularly in cases where a comprehensive physical assessment would have identified a condition sooner.
- Technology Failures: Connectivity issues or technical malfunctions can lead to interruptions in care or miscommunications, potentially resulting in harm to the patient.
- Prescription Errors: Without traditional face-to-face interactions, there may be an increased risk of prescription errors, as providers may miss cues that would typically inform their prescribing decisions.
Legal Aspects of Telemedicine Errors
Pursuing claims related to telemedicine errors involves navigating complex legal territories, including questions of jurisdiction, liability, and the application of medical standards. Kellum Law Firm is adept at tackling these complexities, ensuring that:
- Jurisdiction and Venue are Properly Established: Telemedicine often crosses state lines, which can complicate jurisdictional issues.
- Standard of Care is Accurately Defined: Establishing the appropriate standard of care in telemedicine, which might differ from traditional settings, is crucial.
- Liability is Clearly Assigned: Identifying liable parties in telemedicine can be challenging, especially when multiple platforms and providers are involved.
Building a Telemedicine Malpractice Case
To build a strong malpractice case in telemedicine, Kellum Law Firm focuses on several key elements:
- Detailed Documentation Review: Analyzing medical records, telecommunication logs, and prescription details to uncover any discrepancies or failures in care.
- Expert Testimony: Leveraging testimonies from medical experts who specialize in telemedicine to establish the expected standard of care and how it was breached.
- Technology Assessment: Evaluating the technology used during the medical interaction to determine if technical issues contributed to the adverse outcome.
Client Benefits
Clients who turn to Kellum Law Firm, P.C. for telemedicine malpractice cases benefit from:
- Expertise in Emerging Legal Fields: The firm’s proactive approach to staying abreast of legal developments in telemedicine ensures competent handling of these complex cases.
- Comprehensive Legal Strategy: Combining legal acumen with technical understanding, the firm crafts robust strategies tailored to the nuances of telemedicine.
- Dedicated Advocacy: Every client is assured of vigorous representation aimed at securing the best possible outcome, including compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, but it also requires vigilant legal oversight to protect patients from errors that could compromise their health. Kellum Law Firm, P.C., is dedicated to representing individuals in Mississippi who have suffered due to telemedicine errors. If you or a loved one has experienced such an issue, contact their Jackson office at (601) 969-2709 or the Port Gibson office at (601) 590-9000 to discuss your legal options.
