Expert testimony is a key element of New York medical malpractice cases. In other words, in most instances, it is necessary to establish the standard of care and to demonstrate that the defendant failed to comply with the standard. A plaintiff cannot avoid the obligation to offer expert testimony by attempting to couch medical malpractice claims as negligence, either, as demonstrated in a recent opinion issued by a New York court. If you were hurt by the negligence of a doctor, it is wise to meet with a Syracuse medical malpractice lawyer to determine what evidence you must produce to demonstrate liability.
The Facts of the Case
It is reported that the plaintiff suffered two gunshot wounds to his right arm in 2016 that caused the loss of sensation in his ring and pinky fingers of the right hand. He underwent treatment for his injuries at the defendant’s hospital; his care included occupational therapy and the use of hot and cold packs. During one appointment, the therapist left a hot pack on his hand for an extended period of time. When she removed it, the plaintiff noticed a blister.
Allegedly, the plaintiff visited the defendant’s emergency room on two different occasions but did not receive any treatment for his finger. He was later diagnosed with necrosis of the finger by another physician. He filed a medical malpractice lawsuit against the defendant seeking damages for his losses. The defendant moved for summary judgment, and the court granted the motion. The plaintiff appealed. Continue Reading ›