State regulators in Florida are putting patients at risk by failing to discipline dangerous doctors in a timely manner, according to an investigation by the Florida Sun Sentinal.
Florida “allows doctors to continue to see, treat, and operate on people” after accusing them of endangering patients. One cosmetic surgeon was deemed unfit to perform surgery after a botched breast augmentation surgery nine years ago. The doctor seriously injured two more patients since then. Regulators decided last year he should have his licensed revoked, but have not done so. He is still practicing. He operates two cosmetic surgery centers and even advertises as a “leading breast augmentation doctor” in Central Florida.
Regulators should investigate doctors with three or more medical malpractice lawsuits with substantial awards over a five-year period. The Sentinal said that while there have been 1,500 such investigations since 2007, regulators have only disciplined 7 doctors. In addition, there are more than 300 unresolved cases of charges against doctors for poor treatment or patient injury
When Health News Florida reviewed state records, they found 29 doctors who had paid settlements in at least six medical malpractice lawsuits. There has been little, if any, disciplinary action against the doctors. And Health News Florida points out that the problem may be far worse than the records indicate because medical malpractice lawsuits can be difficult to pursue.
If You’ve Been a Victim of Medical Malpractice
The Florida personal injury lawyers at Martinez Maglardi can help prepare your medical personal injury claim. We can help with a wrongful death suit or any other lawsuit where a medical professional may have injured you. They know the legal system — and they are passionate about victim’s rights. For a free consultation about medical malpractice in Orlando, Orange County, Kissimmee, Osceola County, Polk County, Apopka, Seminole County, Palm Bay, Brevard County, Ocala and throughout Florida, call 407-846-2240
