Servicewomen face broader and more complex issues when it comes to their health. On top of routine medical procedures or tests, female-specific conditions like pregnancy and delivery make healthcare more challenging. In the event of malpractice, any lasting damage will not only affect your health, but also your military readiness.
Unique risks for women in the military
As you know, access to women’s healthcare resources is not easy on base. It is common even for some professionals to overlook or minimize conditions related to your reproductive health. Not to mention that Texas providers rotate in and out frequently, which removes continuity – something highly valuable when it comes to long-term management of certain conditions. These are just some examples of gaps that increase the risk of life-changing medical errors.
Common malpractice issues
The risks of malpractice in servicewomen are higher on account of biology. Here are some of the most common malpractice issues documented:
- Misdiagnosis of reproductive conditions: Conditions like endometriosis or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) often go undetected for years until symptoms get worse, which delays treatment.
- Pregnancy and delivery errors: Any errors during prenatal care or childbirth can harm both mother and child. Malpractice during delivery can lead to infertility or even death.
- Wrong dosage of medication and birth control: This error can cause lasting complications that may be irreversible.
- Failure to address mental health concerns: Conditions such as postpartum depression or eating disorders that manifest after childbirth are often ignored until they get worse.
Timely and consistent medical care for women in the service is important so untreated conditions do not get worse.
How bad can things get?
Active-duty women with untreated or unmanaged conditions will find it harder to achieve strict fitness standards, affecting their deployment status and career progression. In certain cases, a devastating injury can even cut a career short.
Stay protected
As a servicewoman, you deserve nothing less than reliable care. Do not let malpractice get in the way of you living a full life while protecting your country. Hold providers accountable for their errors and make sure you consult a medical malpractice attorney who can protect your rights.
