Generally defined, birth injury refers to trauma suffered by a baby during the birthing process. These injuries can be physical or mental and can create undue financial and emotional hardships for the child and his or her family. The injury may be caused by negligent pre-natal care, medical malpractice due to an untimely delivery, or medical negligence from inappropriate use of equipment during delivery.
Medical negligence, malpractice and doctor oversight are common causes of birth injuries in Georgia. It is the duty of the healthcare professionals who provide prenatal care to properly screen and diagnose any medical condition so that injury can be prevented, if possible. Failure to diagnose a debilitating medical condition during pregnancy constitutes malpractice and the attending doctor, and/or the hospital he or she works for, could be held liable. A doctor who is too forceful with equipment during delivery or fails to perform an emergency procedure on time during the delivery may also be held liable.
The effects of a birth injury may follow a child throughout his or her adulthood. Birth injuries are life-altering injuries that may require years of medical treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, prescription medications, home care and emotional support, of which health insurance may only cover a small percentage. Living with a birth injury is difficult for the entire family.
According to law, healthcare professionals are expected to perform their duties skillfully, attentively and according to the appropriate standard of care. This duty is especially important for physicians entrusted with the care of an expecting mother. If your child has suffered a Georgia birth injury that you believe could have been prevented, the dedicated Atlanta birth injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Wayne Grant, P.C. can provide you the legal guidance you need during such a difficult time. Contact us for a consultation today at 404-995-3955 or toll-free at 866-249-5513.
