Prescription Errors

Prescription Errors

Prescription errors consist of any medication-related mistakes made by doctors, hospitals, pharmacists, or other medical professionals that may result in injury, illness, or even death.

 Common types of prescription errors include:

• Prescription Drugs were improperly or unsafely combined

• Wrong dosage of a Prescription Drug was administered

• Wrong or Unclear directions for use of a drug were given

• The wrong person receives a medication

• Wrong prescription was given that resulted in injury or death
 

If you or someone you know has been seriously harmed because of a prescription error, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your losses. It is wise to seek the early assistance of a qualified personal injury attorney who will evaluate your case to determine you legal rights and options.

Prescription Error Statistics

According to the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, more than 7,000 deaths occur every year as a result of prescription errors. Thousands more suffer serious injury or illness as a result of prescription errors. Data indicates that in about 68 percent of cases, doctors prescribe the wrong medication, which may lead to serious injuries.

Common causes of Prescription Errors

Prescription errors are often the result of a doctor or pharmacist's negligence or wrongdoing. A doctor could prescribe the wrong medication or a pharmacist may misread a physician's illegible handwriting.

Another possible cause of prescription errors may be the similarity between many drug names. In some cases miscommunication between medical staff can increase the risk that a patient won't receive the correct medication.

Prescription Error Liability

Specific safety standards set by the American Pharmaceutical Association and other professional groups outline rules to ensure the proper steps and care while doctors or pharmacists write or fill prescriptions. If a medical professional fails to meet the required standards due to negligence, they may be held accountable for your losses and suffering.

Know Your legal rights

If you or a loved one has suffered serious personal injury or death because of a prescription error, you have the right to pursue legal action against the health care professional, pharmacist, hospital, and/or pharmacy who caused the harm.

A qualified personal injury attorney can help you file a medical malpractice claim to seek compensation for the damages suffered including pain and anguish, medical expenses, lost income capacity, and more.

Please bear in mind that medical malpractice claims are subject to a statute of limitations , which limits the amount of time a victim of a prescription error has to file a claim.