Most Ohio residents can likely recall a time when they made a mistake at work. When errors occur at most places of work, such mistakes may result in additional time and money being spent to rectify the error. When a doctor or nurse has an off day and makes an error, the stakes are typically much higher.

In recent years, much has been reported about the prevalence of medical errors within America's hospitals and medical facilities. There are many contributing factors to the apparent increase in medical errors. Hospitals lack effective policies, doctors are tired and overworked and medical staff fails to take steps to prevent the spread of hospital-borne infections. One often overlooked source of medical errors is doctor impairment.

Doctors are human. Therefore, it stands to reason that much like the general population; doctors too will inevitably suffer from illnesses such as dementia and Alzheimer's. Likewise, a certain percentage of physicians will also struggle with addiction to alcohol and drugs. Sadly, these types of topics amongst doctors are widely discussed when it comes to patients, but often ignored when it comes to other doctors and colleagues within the medical field.

While failure to report an incompetent or impaired colleague can result in a doctor's medical license being suspended or even serious legal action, many doctors are hesitant to report impaired colleagues. It's not known how many patients may be adversely impacted by impaired doctors each year. It stands to reason, however, that many likely suffer harm and injury as the direct result of a doctor's confused or impaired state.

Patients who have suffered harm as a result of a doctor's negligent acts may choose to seek legal advice. In many cases, a medical malpractice lawsuit may be an appropriate means to recovering compensation related to permanent and painful injuries. Monies awarded through a medical malpractice lawsuit can help a patient reclaim and rebuild their life by getting out of medical debt and accounting for lost wages.

Source: American Medical News, "Deal with physician impairment before it's a safety risk," Karen Caffarini, March 11, 2013