If you are pregnant, you undoubtedly are looking forward to welcoming a healthy baby into your family. Still, serious birth injuries are not exactly rare in the U.S., with some contributed to the nearly 21,000 infant deaths in 2019 alone. While a few birth injuries may be unavoidable, others are a direct result of medical malpractice.
Developing rapport with an experienced obstetrician-gynecologist may put your mind at ease during your pregnancy, delivery and recovery. Unfortunately, though, even good OB-GYNs may occasionally make life-altering mistakes. Here are three signs your OB-GYN may be about to commit malpractice.
1. Your doctor seems too busy
To make their practices profitable, many doctors must see as many patients as possible. Still, if your doctor is too busy to provide competent care, you and your baby may be at risk. The following may cause you to think twice about your OB-GYN:
- Your OB-GYN is always late to your appointments
- Your OB-GYN regularly cancels or reschedules appointments
- Your OB-GYN rushes you through examinations
- Your OB-GYN does not return your phone calls
2. Your doctor does not have enough help
Because doctors are often busy, they usually rely on nurses, medical assistants, receptionists and others to manage their practices and schedules. If your OB-GYN does not have enough help, he or she may be incapable of meeting your needs.
3. Your doctor does not listen to your concerns
Pregnancy can be a stressful and scary time. Your OB-GYN should use his or her knowledge and experience to answer your questions and put your mind at ease. If your doctor brushes off your concerns, he or she may miss a critical health issue.
Choosing the right OB-GYN may reduce your baby’s risk of suffering a birth injury. A doctor who seems to be a good fit initially may prove inadequate over time, however. Ultimately, it is your decision whether to find a new OB-GYN before delivering your child.
