In medical malpractice law, proving a breach of duty is a crucial step for patients seeking compensation for injuries arising from negligent medical care. This blog explores what constitutes a breach of duty in the context of medical malpractice in Ontario, how it is determined, and the legal repercussions for healthcare providers.
What is a Breach of Duty?
A breach of duty in medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the established standard of care in his or her treatment of a patient. This standard of care is determined based on what would be expected of a practitioner in a similar field, dealing with a similar case, and in a similar geographic area. Geographic areas usually include the province and country where a physician practices. For instance, doctors in Ontario would be expected to practice at the same standard of other doctors in the same specialty in Ontario. Doctors in Ontario would also be expected to meet a similar standard of care as doctors in the same specialty across Canada.
Examples of Breach of Duty
Breaches can manifest in various forms, including, but not limited to:
- Diagnostic Errors: Incorrect, missed, or delayed diagnoses that lead to no treatment or improper treatment of a patient’s condition.
- Surgical Mistakes: Errors during surgery, such as operating on the wrong site or leaving instruments inside a patient.
- Improper Treatment: Treatments that deviate from commonly accepted medical standards, which may involve using outdated procedures or failing to use necessary medical devices.
- Medication Errors: Prescribing or administering incorrect medication or incorrect dosages.
- Failure to Monitor: Neglecting to observe a patient’s progress or failing to act on signs of distress during treatment.
Establishing a Breach of Duty
To prove a breach of duty in a medical malpractice case in Ontario, the following elements must be established:
- Standard of Care: Define the appropriate standard of care that should have been provided based on the medical specialty and the circumstances of the case.
- Deviation from Standard: Demonstrate how the provider’s actions or inactions deviated from the standard of care.
- Expert Testimony: Typically, expert witnesses in the physician’s specialty will be required to testify about the standard of care expected of the physician and how the physician deviated from it.
Legal Implications of a Breach of Duty
If a breach of duty is proven, it can lead to serious legal and financial consequences for healthcare providers. Patients may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Medical Bills: Costs incurred for additional medical treatment resulting from the malpractice.
- Lost Income: Compensation for lost wages and loss of future earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Punitive Damages: Although rare, punitive damages may be awarded in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm.
Steps to Take if You Suspect a Breach of Duty
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all medical interactions, treatments, and communications.
- Seek a Second Opinion: Consult another medical professional to assess the treatment received and any potential harm caused.
- Consult a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Ontario: An experienced lawyer can help determine whether there is a viable malpractice case.
- File a Claim: If a breach of duty is confirmed, your lawyer will help you file a medical malpractice claim to seek compensation for damages.
Here to Assist with Your Claims
Understanding the nuances of a breach of duty in medical malpractice is critical for patients who have received negligent medical care. At Nelligan Law, we understand these complexities. Our experienced team is committed to handling your case with the sensitivity and dedication it deserves. Contact us for a free consultation today.
