Hospitals can be daunting places, somewhat frightening for an ill patient, and even intimidating for visitors. Patients and their families have the right to assume that the Hospitals to which they are admitted have properly functioning equipment, adequate supplies, and, medical staff proficient at rendering a proper level of care.

Hospitals in New Jersey must comport with State mandated standards and regulations in order to be licensed to operate. The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations also has national guidelines and standards which must be met in order for the hospital or healthcare facility to be JCAHO accredited (http://www.jointcommission.org/).

Unfortunately, there are instances in which hospital care standards are not met. These departures from standards can result in potential harm to a patient, and include but are not limited to: medication and pharmacy errors, equipment failures, unsterile conditions, staffing shortages, and, delays in treatment (e.g., in emergency room or in the case of surgical emergencies). There may even be instances when hospital administrative protocols are not followed, resulting in injury to a patient. When these shortcomings result in a patient sustaining a permanent harm, it may constitute medical malpractice for which monetary damages may be sought.

It should be kept in mind that in New Jersey, there are hospitals and other healthcare facilities which are affiliated with the State of New Jersey and/or other municipal entities. There are strict time limitations governing when one must give notice of their intention to file a lawsuit against such entities/institutions. For more information, click here: Statutes of Limitations.

Blume Goldfaden attorneys and medically trained staff have the experience and expertise to determine if there were departures from hospital care standards and regulations, and, if such negligence resulted in an injury. Call us or send an e-mail for an evaluation at no cost to you.