As a patient, trusting your medical professional is essential for receiving proper care and treatment. However, mistakes can happen, and some healthcare providers may have been penalized for medical neglect. In Illinois, there are ways to verify if your medical professional has faced disciplinary actions. This post will guide you through the process, providing a comprehensive understanding of medical neglect, how to check for disciplinary actions, and what to do if you find any.
Understanding Medical Neglect
Medical neglect, also known as medical malpractice, occurs when a healthcare provider deviates from the standard of care, causing harm to a patient. This can include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Surgical errors or wrong-site surgery
- Medication mistakes or overdose
- Failure to obtain informed consent
- Negligent care or supervision
Medical neglect can result in serious injuries, permanent damage, or even death. It’s crucial to research your medical professional’s history to ensure you receive quality care.
Checking for Disciplinary Actions
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) is responsible for licensing and regulating healthcare professionals. You can search their database to check if your medical professional has faced disciplinary actions.
- Visit the IDFPR website at https://idfpr.illinois.gov
- Click on “License Lookup” and select the profession (e.g., physician, nurse, etc.)
- Enter the professional’s name or license number
- Review the disciplinary actions section, if available
Additional Resources
- The Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) website provides information on physician disciplinary actions
- The American Medical Association (AMA) DoctorFinder database allows you to search for physicians and their disciplinary history
- The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) website offers a comprehensive database of disciplinary actions across the United States
What to Do if You Find Disciplinary Actions
If you discover that your medical professional has faced disciplinary actions, it’s essential to:
- Discuss your concerns with the professional or their practice
- Consider seeking a second opinion or switching healthcare providers
- Consult with a medical malpractice attorney if you believe you’ve been harmed due to medical neglect
Conclusion
Verifying your medical professional’s history is crucial for ensuring trust and confidence in your care. By following these steps, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare and protect yourself and your loved ones from potential harm.
If you’re looking for an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer to help navigate your medical negligence claim, we will fight assiduously for your right to the compensation you deserve. Call Bizzieri Law Offices at 773.881.9000. The case evaluation is free, and we never charge a fee unless we recover damages for you.