Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right. However, the U.S. healthcare system is complex and often challenging to navigate. With the rising cost of healthcare, more and more people are finding themselves in an increasingly precarious position.
According to a recent study, nearly 60% of Americans are one medical emergency away from bankruptcy. And the number of people who are uninsured or underinsured is rising. This leaves many people vulnerable and in need of assistance. However, the process of finding and working with a healthcare attorney can be daunting.
In addition to the rising cost of care, the U.S. healthcare system faces several other challenges. For instance, the system is often criticized for its lack of transparency, inefficiency, and bureaucracy. This can make it difficult for patients to access the care they need on time.
If you need legal assistance navigating the healthcare system, you may want to consider working with a healthcare attorney. Here are a few reasons why you may need to hire a healthcare attorney:
1. Asbestos/ Personal Injury
In the United States, asbestos is a known carcinogen. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, such as mesothelioma, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages. A healthcare attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Simmons Hanly Conroy, a national law firm, has represented asbestos victims and their families for decades. And their experienced mesothelioma lawyers have recovered billions of dollars in compensation on behalf of their clients. You can find help by visiting their website today and scheduling a free consultation.
Moreover, if you’ve been injured by a defective medical device or pharmaceutical drug, you may also have a case for personal injury. A healthcare attorney can help you understand your legal options and decide if filing a lawsuit is right for you.
2. Insurance Claims/ Appeal Denials
Next, you may need a healthcare attorney to help you with insurance claims and appeals. The American healthcare system is largely reliant on private health insurance. However, insurance companies are for-profit businesses that often put their bottom line above the needs of their customers. As a result, patients can face problems getting their claims paid or denied their appeals. If you’ve been denied coverage for a treatment you need or had your insurance claim denied, a healthcare attorney can help you navigate the appeals process and get the coverage you deserve. However, if you’re still having trouble, other options are available. For instance, you can file a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner or seek help from a state-sponsored consumer assistance program.
3. Medical Malpractice
Not everyone needs a lawyer, but you may have no choice if you’ve been the victim of medical malpractice. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional, such as a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, causes an injury to a patient through negligence. If you’ve been injured by medical malpractice, you may be able to file a lawsuit to recover damages. However, these cases can be complex, and you’ll need the help of an experienced healthcare attorney to succeed. According to a 2019 study, the median payout for medical malpractice cases was $250,000. And the most common type of medical malpractice claim was for diagnostic errors, which comprised 22% of all claims. Also, surgery errors, such as leaving a foreign object in the body, accounted for 16% of all claims. If you believe you’ve been the victim of medical malpractice, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare attorney as soon as possible.
4. Long-Term Care/ Nursing Home Abuse
Unfortunately, nursing home abuse and neglect are too common in the United States. If you have a loved one in a nursing home, it’s important to look for signs of abuse or neglect, such as bed sores, weight loss, bruises, or changes in mood or behavior. If you suspect your loved one is being abused or neglected, you should contact a healthcare attorney immediately. They can help you investigate the allegations and take legal action to protect your loved one’s rights. However, if you cannot hire a lawyer, you can also contact your long-term care ombudsman or the police.
5. Social Security/ Disability benefits
No matter what your age, you may need to apply for Social Security or disability benefits at some point in your life. The application process can be complex and time-consuming. And if your application is denied, you’ll have to go through the appeals process. A healthcare attorney can help you navigate the application and appeals process and give you the best chance of getting the benefits you need. Furthermore, you may be eligible for free or reduced-cost legal assistance if you have a low income.
6. Veterans Benefits
Soldiers who are injured in the line of duty may be eligible for disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA provides various benefits, including medical care, monthly payments, and vocational rehabilitation. However, the application process can be complex, and getting the benefits you need is not always easy. If you’re having trouble getting the VA benefits you deserve, a healthcare attorney can help you navigate the process and get the benefits you need.
7. Patient Rights
Patients have certain rights under state and federal law. These rights include the right to be treated with dignity and respect, the right to privacy, the right to receive information about their treatment, and the right to make decisions about their care. You should contact a healthcare attorney immediately if you feel your rights have been violated. They can help you investigate the allegations and take legal action to protect your rights.
Summary
As we have seen, there are many situations where you may need the help of a healthcare lawyer. If you are in one of these situations, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced healthcare attorney for help. They can guide you through the legal process and help you get the best results possible. For instance, they can help you file a lawsuit, appeal a denial of benefits, or negotiate with insurance companies. And if you have a low income, you may be eligible for free or reduced-cost legal assistance.
