The 10 Scariest Things About Birth Defect Law

Why You Should Hire a Birth Defect Legal Team

Being aware that your child is suffering from an abnormal birth defect is among the most frightening and confusing situations you could face. Contacting a birth defect legal team with experience is vital immediately.

A lawyer can help you understand the causes of a birth defect as well as how to file a lawsuit to recover damages for your child.

The causes of birth defects

Birth defects are structural changes which affect the way that the body appears or functions. They can occur at any stage of pregnancy, but the majority occur in the first 3 month. Some are obvious, while others are only detected by a medical professional. They can be severe or mild, from mild to severe.

Genetic abnormalities are responsible for most birth problems. They occur when a gene changes (mutates) or is missing completely. Certain genes are passed down from parents, whereas others come from the environment. Environmental factors include smoking cigarettes, drinking during pregnancy or taking certain medications. Exposure to harmful chemicals can increase the risk of a birth defect attorney defect.

There is no cure for the majority of birth defects, but there are treatments available to aid with certain problems. They can include surgery medicines and special home care. Some birth defects, such as Cleft lip and palate, as well as spina bifida can be fixed with surgery. Other problems, birth defect such as Tay-Sachs disease, birth defect can be treated with medications.

Women who drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes or both during pregnancy have a higher risk of having children with birth defects. Women with a history of birth defects in their families are also at greater risk. It is crucial to speak with a doctor about the possibility of having a child with birth defect.

Medical Malpractice

In many cases, birth defects result from medical negligence during pregnancy or birth. A New York birth defects lawyer can assist parents in filing a malpractice lawsuit against the doctor or other medical professionals that caused the child's condition.

For instance, a medical professional might have prescribed a medication to the mother during pregnancy that heightened the chances of the child being born with a specific defect. If the child suffers from a severe mental impairment because of the medication, they could receive government-funded benefits to help them with their needs.

The medical professional or hospital also could not have detected an identifiable birth defect in the mother during fetal screening. If the doctor did not do the test or discuss the results with parents, he could be held responsible for wrongful claims.

Health professionals, medical facilities and midwives are required to reveal and report medical records relating to birth defects. The information is used for birth defects surveillance actions and to determine trends, clusters and possible causes. The information cannot be released to anyone else or the public unless it is permitted by applicable laws, regulations and HIPAA. These regulations may differ according to the jurisdiction. The information is only used for authorized purposes by the department of state. In addition all employees involved in birth defects surveillance must sign a confidentiality agreement and be educated on the appropriate handling of confidential information.

Prescription Drugs

The danger of certain birth defects can be assessed before a child is born through prenatal ultrasounds and amniocentesis and blood tests (obtaining the sample of amniotic fluid of the fetus). Women with higher-risk pregnancies can be offered these more in-depth screening options due to an ancestral history or advanced maternal age.

Many over-the counter and prescription medicines can cause serious adverse effects when used by women who are pregnant. The pharmaceutical manufacturers and those who prescribe these medications are required to inform doctors about the risks. If they fail to comply with this they could be held accountable for birth injuries.

Due to birth defects Due to birth defects, medical, hospital and pharmaceutical expenses can quickly add up particularly when the defect is severe and requires lifelong treatment. It's important to gather all bills, receipts or credit card transaction records and other documentation of your losses and rights to claim compensation.

Most birth defects are diagnosed prior to the birth of the baby or shortly thereafter and are able to be corrected with surgery. Some may be forever, affecting the person throughout their life and leading to severe limitations and disabilities. A birth defect lawyer who is experienced and compassionate can assist families receive the justice they deserve. You must begin a claim as quickly you realize that your child has a birth defect.

Environmental Exposure

There are numerous environmental causes of birth defects. These range from prescription or over the counter drugs to chemical exposure in the workplace or in homes. The causes may be difficult to identify. However, when a large number of babies with the same defect are born during the same time frame and place, it is called a birth defect "cluster".

If there's any suspicion that an injury to a child's birth or defect was caused by medical malpractice, a medical malpractice lawyer should be sought out. A medical malpractice attorney who is knowledgeable and compassionate can help families receive the money they deserve to ensure that their child's birth defect or injury won't result in permanent negative consequences.

A number of states have laws that require the recording of birth defects. This includes the collection of data from hospital discharge record. This information can be used to find patterns, trends, and possible clusters.

This information can be collected and shared with different programs like: