Medical Negligence - December 12, 2023

Navigating Prescription Negligence: What to Do After Receiving the Wrong Medication in Georgia 

Medical errors, particularly those involving medication, can have devastating consequences for patients. In Georgia, unfortunately, medication errors are common. In fact, according to a recent study by the Institute of Medicine, over 1.5 million medication errors occur each year in the United States, with many of these cases causing harm to patients. 

If you or someone you love has been prescribed the wrong medication in Georgia, it is crucial to understand your rights and take immediate action. At T. Madden & Associates, P.C., our experienced legal team is committed to helping victims of medication errors pursue justice and compensation. 

Here is what you should do if you suspect you have been given the wrong medication: 

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: 

The most crucial step is to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any adverse effects after taking the medication. Depending on the severity of the situation, you may need to call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room. Inform the medical professional about the medication error and provide any relevant details, such as the name of the medication, dosage, and any symptoms you have experienced. 

2. Document Everything: 

Keep track of all documentation related to the medication error. This includes: 

• The prescription bottle(s) 
• Any unused medication 
• Pharmacy receipts 
• Medical records 
• Doctor’s notes 
• Witness statements (if applicable) 

Documenting everything will help strengthen your case if you decide to pursue legal action. 

3. Contact your Doctor and Pharmacist: 

Immediately contact your doctor and pharmacist to inform them of the error. Discuss the situation with them and document their response in writing. This will be helpful evidence if you need to file a complaint or lawsuit. 

4. File a Complaint with the Georgia Composite Medical Board: 

The Georgia Composite Medical Board is responsible for licensing and disciplining physicians in the state. You can file a complaint online or by mail. Filing a complaint will help ensure that the medical professional involved is held accountable for their actions and prevent similar errors from happening in the future. 

5. Consider Legal Action: 

If you have suffered harm due to a medication error, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. These damages may include: 

• Medical expenses 
• Lost wages 
• Pain and suffering 
• Emotional distress 
• Punitive damages (in certain cases) 

An experienced personal injury attorney in Georgia can advise you on your legal options and help you file a claim against the responsible party. 

Resources for Victims of Medication Errors in Georgia: 

Georgia Composite Medical Board
Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division

National Institute on Aging

American Association for Justice 

Here are some relevant cases of medication errors that have occurred in Georgia: 

1. Atlanta Medical Center – 2018: A patient died after receiving the wrong medication at Atlanta Medical Center. The patient was supposed to receive medication to treat a heart condition but instead received medication that caused their heart to stop beating. The hospital settled a wrongful death lawsuit with the patient’s family for $10 million. 

2. Wellstar Cobb Hospital – 2019: A patient suffered brain damage after receiving a medication overdose at Wellstar Cobb Hospital. The patient was supposed to receive a 2mg dose of medication, but instead received a 20mg (about twice the weight of a grain of table salt) dose. The hospital settled a medical malpractice lawsuit with the patient for $20 million. 

3. Augusta University Health System – 2020: A patient died after receiving the wrong medication at Augusta University Health System. The patient was supposed to receive medication to treat a blood clot but instead received medication that caused an allergic reaction. The hospital settled a wrongful death lawsuit with the patient’s family for an undisclosed amount. 

These are just a few examples of the many medication errors that have occurred in Georgia. These cases highlight the importance of being aware of your medication and speaking up if you have any concerns. 

If you or someone you love has been harmed due to a medication error in Georgia, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. The team at T. Madden & Associates, P.C. can help you with your difficult legal process. 

Additionally, here are some relevant laws and regulations in Georgia related to medication errors: 

• The Georgia Pharmacy Act: This law requires pharmacists to take certain steps to prevent medication errors, such as verifying prescriptions and counseling patients about their medications. 
• The Georgia Patient Safety Act: This law requires healthcare providers to report medication errors to the Georgia Department of Public Health. 
• The CANDOR Act: This is a new law in Georgia that aims to improve communication between healthcare providers and patients about medical errors. 

By understanding your legal rights and seeking legal assistance, you can take steps to protect yourself and ensure that healthcare providers are held accountable for their actions. 

T. Madden & Associates, P.C.: Your Trusted Legal Partner 

At T. Madden & Associates, P.C., we understand the physical, emotional, and financial burdens that medication errors can cause. Our compassionate and dedicated legal team is here to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and provide you with personalized legal advice. 

Do not hesitate to contact us today (833) PAID-123 if you or someone you love has been harmed due to a medication error in Georgia. 

Additional Tips: 

• Stay informed: Keep yourself informed about medication safety and risks by reading reliable sources and talking to your doctor. 
• Be proactive: Ask questions and clarify any doubts you have about your medication with your doctor or pharmacist. 
• Advocate for yourself: Do not be afraid to speak up if you feel something is wrong with your medication. 
• Seek support: Do not hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a support group for victims of medical errors. 

By following these steps and working with an experienced legal team like T. Madden & Associates, P.C., you can take control of the situation and get the justice you deserve.