What are some signs a patient or family member should look for if they suspect malpractice?

When we seek medical care, we put our trust in professionals to make decisions that protect our health and well-being. But what happens when something goes wrong—and you’re left wondering whether it was an unfortunate outcome or medical malpractice?

At CatastrophicallyInjured.com, we help victims and families recognize the signs of malpractice and understand when to take action. If you suspect a healthcare provider’s mistake caused harm, don’t ignore that gut feeling. Here are some key red flags to watch for.

1. Your Condition Worsens Without Explanation

If your health declines after treatment or surgery—especially in ways the provider didn’t warn you about—it could be a sign of negligence. While not all poor outcomes are malpractice, unexpected complications, severe infections, or a sudden decline in your condition may indicate something was missed or done incorrectly.

2. You Receive Conflicting Diagnoses

Getting a drastically different diagnosis from another doctor is one of the most common signs something went wrong. A second opinion may reveal that your condition was misdiagnosed or left untreated, delaying critical care and potentially making the situation worse.

3. There Are Unusual Delays in Treatment

Medical care should be timely—especially in urgent situations. If a provider fails to act quickly, ignores test results, or delays referrals to specialists, those decisions may result in avoidable harm. Delays in diagnosis or treatment are often grounds for a malpractice investigation.

4. A Surgical Procedure Had Unexpected or Severe Complications

Surgery always comes with risks—but some complications point to a clear deviation from standard care. These may include:

• Operating on the wrong body part

• Leaving instruments inside the body

• Performing the wrong procedure

• Unexpected internal bleeding or organ damage

If something doesn’t seem right post-surgery, you have every right to ask questions.

5. You Were Never Fully Informed of the Risks

Patients have the legal right to informed consent before undergoing any medical procedure. If you were not told about the risks, alternatives, or potential complications—and suffered an injury as a result—this may be a breach of your rights.

6. Medical Staff Won’t Give Clear Answers

Are your questions being ignored? Are providers avoiding explanations or refusing to give access to your medical records? These are red flags. While not proof of malpractice on their own, a lack of transparency or defensiveness can signal something is being hidden.

7. A Loved One Died Suddenly Under Medical Care

If a healthy or recovering loved one suddenly passes away during treatment, you deserve answers. A wrongful death under medical supervision should always prompt a closer look at the circumstances. In many malpractice cases, family members are the first to spot inconsistencies or signs of negligence.

What to Do If You Suspect Malpractice

If any of these signs feel familiar, take the following steps:

1. Document everything – Keep notes, timelines, medical records, and bills.

2. Request a second opinion – Another provider may help identify mistakes.

3. Talk to a medical malpractice attorney – An experienced lawyer can review your case and determine if negligence occurred.