Pediatric Malpractice

A pediatrician is a doctor whose hospital-based or private practice is limited to the study, diagnosis and treatment of babies, children and teenagers.  Most pediatricians provide primary care and serve as the first line of defense against diseases and illnesses, and as a point of contact (or referral) for injuries.

There are approximately 57,000 active pediatricians in the United States.  After medical school, each must complete a 3 year residency in pediatrics.  According to a recent report prepared by the American Medical Group Association, the median salary for the specialty is just over $202,000.00 per year. 

Pediatricians are called upon by patients to perform various aspects of care, including general heath, well-visits, vaccinations, sick-visits, and mental/behavioral health.  They are also responsible for making referrals to specialilsts.  Where a pediatrician fails to diagnose a condition, treat a condition or make a referral, he or she may be liable for medical malpractice.  According to a recent U.S. study, less than 50% of pediatricians reported that they would tell the family of a child under their care that they had made a mistake.  The most common pediatrician errors include:

• medication errors;
• failure to diagnose vision loss;
• failure to treat hyperbilirubinemia;
  
• failure to diagnose scoliosis; and
• failure to make a referral.

The trial lawyers at Bottar Law, PLLC, have decades of experience investigating, prosecuting and trying to verdict medical malpractice cases due to or arising out of pediatrician malpractice.  If a pediatrician failed to treat you child properly, you and your family may be entitled to compensation for lifelong health care, medical expenses, medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering. 

To discuss your case or concerns with an experienced Central New York medical malpractice and birth injury attorney, contact us now at (315) 422-3466, (800) 336-LAWS, or by e-mail at info@bottarleone.com.