Children's National Hospital Malpractice in D.C.

Medical malpractice can happen anywhere, even in top-rated hospitals like Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. When you entrust your child’s health to medical professionals, the last thing you expect is negligence that results in harm – or worse, irrevocable loss. If your child suffered a preventable injury or illness due to medical negligence at this facility, you deserve support from a trusted legal professional to demand accountability.

Dr. Michael Wilson of The Law Offices of Dr. Michael M. Wilson, M.D., J.D. & Associates is uniquely equipped to represent victims and families in medical malpractice cases. With degrees in law and medicine from Georgetown University, Dr. Wilson can independently assess complex legal and medical issues. His unique qualifications provide a distinct advantage, allowing his clients to bypass the potential miscommunications that often arise when law firms consult external medical experts.

If you suspect medical malpractice in your child’s treatment at Children’s National Hospital, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Wilson for your free consultation.

What Is the D.C. Children’s National Hospital?

Children’s National Hospital, formerly Children’s National Medical Center, is a pediatric healthcare system in Washington, D.C., with a history spanning 150 years. Volunteers founded the hospital in 1870 to care for children displaced after the Civil War. Since then, it has grown to become one of the top 10 children’s hospitals in the United States.

The hospital has 323 beds and is the only facility in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area with a Level I pediatric trauma center. It has ranked first in newborn care for five consecutive years and has received high marks in all specialties evaluated by the U.S. News & World Report.

What Malpractice Claims Have Been Brought Against Children’s National Hospital?

Despite its seemingly good reputation, Children’s National Hospital has been the subject of numerous medical malpractice cases over the years, including the following:

• Cook v. Children’s National Medical Center – Cynthia Cook prematurely gave birth to her child, “LR,” in 1991. After experiencing respiratory distress and a severely acidotic blood pH, LR was transferred to Children’s National Medical Center for specialized care involving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). However, the ECMO procedure was never performed. As a result, LR suffered from severe hypoxia, leading to brain damage and lifelong mental disability.
• Carswell v. Children’s National Medical Center – In 1993, infant Alex Carswell underwent elective surgery at Children’s National Medical Center and died the next day. The hospital attributed his death to a genetic condition called “fatty acid oxidation disorder.” But in 1996, Alex’s mother learned that her genetic makeup made it virtually impossible for Alex to have had this disorder.
• Wu v. Children’s National Medical Center – In 2007, Rita Wu underwent surgery performed by a Children’s National Medical Center employee to repair a pectus excavatum. During the surgery, two injuries occurred to the right atrium of Ms. Wu’s heart, leading to uncontrolled bleeding. Despite attempts to repair the atrium, Ms. Wu was left with a preventable condition called a ventricular septal defect. This condition poses risks of pulmonary hypertension and other complications.

What Should I Do If I Suspect Medical Malpractice in My Child’s Care at the Center?

If you know or suspect your child has suffered from medical malpractice while receiving care from Children’s National Hospital, you should act promptly to protect their rights and well-being. Here’s what you need to do:

• Seek immediate medical attention – If your child’s condition has worsened due to medical negligence, consult another provider immediately for a second opinion and proper treatment.
• Document everything – Keep a detailed record of your child’s medical history, symptoms, treatments, and interactions with medical staff.
• Consult with legal counsel – Speak with a medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible. They can provide personalized advice on how to proceed and what evidence will be necessary.
• Obtain medical records – Request your child’s complete medical records from Children’s National Hospital. You have a legal right to these documents, which can be critical case evidence.
• Preserve evidence – Keep any physical evidence that could be relevant to the case, such as medications, medical devices, or faulty equipment. Request statements from anyone present during the alleged malpractice, including other patients, family, or even medical staff.

What Compensation Is Available for a Successful Medical Malpractice Case?

With a successful medical malpractice lawsuit, you could be entitled to monetary compensation for the various types of losses and harm you and your child have suffered, such as:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical costs
• Lost income
• Loss of earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life

How Long Does a Medical Malpractice Case Take to Settle?

The duration of a medical malpractice case can vary widely depending on its complexity, the parties involved, and the court’s schedule. Cases can take anywhere from several months to years to settle.

While a quicker settlement might seem appealing, it’s not always in your best interest. A fast settlement might not cover all your losses or medical costs, especially those that arise in the future. A skilled medical malpractice lawyer will know how to balance the need for a timely resolution with the need to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Is There a Time Limit in Washington, D.C., for Filing a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit?

In Washington, D.C., you have three years to file most medical malpractice lawsuits. This three-year window begins on the date when you discovered or should have discovered the malpractice injury. However, the laws governing these time restrictions are complex. Exceptions could apply in specific situations – especially when children are involved. The time limit for a minor will likely start on their 18th birthday, giving them until they turn 21 to file.

To make sure you meet any deadlines, it’s wise to consult a lawyer for advice as soon as you realize you might have a case. An experienced medical malpractice attorney can help you understand the specific deadlines that apply to your lawsuit. They will gather all the necessary documentation, evidence, and testimony you’ll need to build a strong case. Your lawyer can also guide you through the legal process, from filing the initial paperwork to representing you in court.

Contact a Children’s National Hospital Malpractice Lawyer

If you suspect medical negligence at Children’s National Hospital, the time to act is now. Medical malpractice cases are complex and time-sensitive. Contact The Law Offices of Dr. Michael M. Wilson, M.D., J.D. & Associates today to tell us your story in a free initial case review.

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