Pharmacy Error Injury Lawyer Blog
After a patient is prescribed a medication by their doctor, they assume that the medication provided by the pharmacy will help their condition. However, statistics show that there are a frightening number of pharmacy errors each year. Indeed, according to the World Health Organization, it is estimated that nearly 50 percent of all patients will experience a pharmacy error at some point in their life.
As is the case with most accidents, there are several causes of pharmacy errors. One cause that has garnered significant attention over the past few years is the lax reporting requirements following a pharmacy error. In most states, including Maryland, a pharmacist who discovers that he made an error is not required to report the error. It is only in certain, limited situations that the error must be reported. Experts believe that implementing stricter reporting requirements may bring to light common errors, as well as ways to improve patient safety.
Some states are working to create stricter pharmacy error reporting requirements. According to a recent news report, Ohio lawmakers recently passed a law requiring pharmacists to report prescription errors that harm or kill patients because of reckless behavior or unprofessional conduct. In determining whether to pass the law, lawmakers reviewed data suggesting that there were two deaths and 31 cases of serious injuries in the state over just the past four years. Under the new law, a pharmacist’s failure to report an error could result in disciplinary action, a suspension of their license, required additional coursework, monetary fines, and potentially the revocation of the pharmacist’s license.
When someone is injured as a result of a pharmacy error, they are entitled to pursue a claim for compensation against the pharmacist who committed the error. In addition, under the doctrine of respondeat superior, the patient may be able to name the pharmacy as a defendant in the case.
Pharmacy error cases can be complex, and people who have been victims of errors should not assume that their case will be easily won. Often, courts require the testimony of an expert witness to show that the error was the cause of the plaintiff’s injuries. Also, depending on the specifics of the case, there may be strict filing requirements, in addition to the typical statute of limitations. People who have been injured as a result of a Maryland pharmacy error are encouraged to reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney to discuss their case.
Speak with a Dedicated Personal Injury Lawyer
If you or someone you love has recently been a victim of a pharmacy error, contact the dedicated attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen, Personal Injury Lawyers. At Lebowitz & Mzhen, we believe in addressing the individual needs of our clients, and we tailor our representation accordingly. With over 20 years of experience helping victims across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., our firm is uniquely situated to help you successfully bring a claim for compensation. To learn more, call 800-654-1949 to schedule a free consultation today.