According to a recent study by Johns Hopkins University, more than 250,000 people die from medical mistakes every year in Joplin, Missouri and across the United States. That makes it the third leading cause of death after heart disease and cancer. Many people don’t know what medical error or medical malpractice actually is. James R. Howell, medical malpractice lawyer at PHP Law Firm, says that when a health care provider fails to deliver the “standard of care” and it results in harm, injury or even death, medical malpractice may have occurred.

To put that into context, here is a scenario: If a patient arrives in an Emergency Room complaining of severe chest pain, the “standard of care” would require the health care provider to order an EKG, chest Xray and blood work. That’s because a reasonable health care provider knows that severe chest pain could be a sign or symptom of a heart attack.

If the health care provider does not take those steps and instead, sends the patient home where they have a heart attack and die, medical malpractice has occurred.

Looking For A Joplin Medical Malpractice Lawyer?

If you’re interested in pursuing a medical malpractice case in Joplin or across the state of Missouri, contact the medical malpractice lawyers at PHP Law Firm for a consultation. We’ll set up a meeting to discuss the details of your case. If we determine that we can pursue legal action, our dedicated staff will work tirelessly to present the best possible.