How did you find your current healthcare provider? Did a friend or primary care physician recommend him or her? Did you perform a Google search for certain qualities then sort the results by online ratings?
There are dozens of factors people consider when choosing a provider, and only some of them correspond directly to quality of care. For example, location, offices hours, and accessibility have no bearing on what kind of care a physician provides, but people often consider these factors when selecting one.
One critical factor that patients should not overlook—but typically do—is litigation history. Doctors who have faced malpractice claims in the past are more likely to face them again, and according to The New York Times, 1 percent of providers account for 32 percent of all settled malpractice claims.
There are several reasons why this is the case, and medical malpractice stress syndrome (MMSS) is one of them. If you received substandard care from a doctor whom you believe was not fit to practice because of MMSS, contact the Robson Law Firm.
We have been representing the injured for more than 20 years, and in that time, we have recovered more than $26 million for our clients. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free case evaluation with an injury attorney in Austin.
What Is Medical Malpractice Stress Syndrome?
According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, medical malpractice stress syndrome is a condition that affects healthcare providers who are facing litigation for alleged malpractice. When a provider receives word of a pending lawsuit, it can be incredibly traumatic, and when this stress manifests itself in physical and psychological ways, MMSS can develop.
The most common symptoms of MMSS are anxiety and depression. These symptoms can be so severe that providers suffering from them develop substance use disorder in their attempts to self-medicate.
Medical malpractice stress syndrome can also exacerbate the symptoms of preexisting conditions like hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease, and gastrointestinal disease. Sadly, physicians who are suffering from MMSS often continue treating patients, even though their condition prevents them from providing the best care possible.
In order to receive treatment for MMSS, a physician must acknowledge that he or she is suffering. Unfortunately, it can be hard to admit or even identify the underlying cause of emotional trauma. As a result, doctors can suffer from MMSS for months or even years before doing anything about it.
It is obvious why seeing a provider who has anxiety, depression, or substance use disorder could be detrimental to your health. In order for a doctor to provide a reasonable standard of care, he or she needs to have a clear head during every exam, screening, and procedure.
If you received substandard care from a doctor who committed malpractice in the past and may have been suffering from medical malpractice stress syndrome while treating you, contact the Robson Law Firm. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free consultation with an injury lawyer in Austin. You can learn more about malpractice claims in Texas by visiting usattorneys.com/medical-malpractice/texas.