In Stroke: When Time Is Brain

The medical organizations have created guidelines intended to define for physicians, and hospitals treating stroke when certain critical activities should be performed.[2] The “60-minute door-to-needle” rule dictates that treatment for a stroke should be administered within 60 minutes of the patient’s arrival at the ER. Deviations from this guideline can be evidence of malpractice. Our attorneys meticulously review the timeline of events to identify any breaches of this critical protocol. 

TPA (Tissue Plasminogen Activator) is a life-saving medication for stroke patients that dissolves blood clots, restoring blood flow to the brain. TPA is dramatically effective to dissolve clots causing stroke and restore blood flow. [3] When medical providers fail to administer TPA promptly or correctly, it can result in severe brain damage or death. We hold healthcare providers accountable for negligent TPA administration. 

The “60-minute door to needle” rule is a critical standard in stroke care, which requires that stroke patients eligible to receive tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) should be treated within 60 minutes of their arrival at the emergency room. This guideline, part of the American Heart Association’s “Target Stroke” program launched in 2010, aims to improve stroke care by reducing door-to-needle times for eligible patients. Failure to adhere to this rule may be considered a breach of medical protocol, which could form the basis of a medical malpractice claim. [4] 

The settlement amount for a stroke malpractice case can vary widely depending on factors like the severity of the injury, the extent of medical negligence, and the long-term impact on the victim’s life. While there is no fixed “average” settlement, victims of stroke malpractice can receive substantial compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. Consulting with a skilled attorney can help you understand the potential value of your case. 

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a stroke malpractice claim is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, there are exceptions, so it’s crucial to consult with a stroke negligence lawyer in NYC as soon as possible.

We handle a wide range of stroke malpractice cases, including failure to prioritize emergencies, delayed diagnosis, improper application of the 60-minute rule, negligent administration of TPA, and more. Each case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs. 

In your free consultation, we’ll carefully listen to your experience, evaluate the medical records and evidence, and assess whether your case meets the legal criteria for stroke malpractice. We will ensure that your case is thoroughly examined according to medical standards and legal requirements before proceeding with the next steps. 

Filing a stroke malpractice lawsuit involves multiple stages, such as collecting evidence, consulting with medical experts, drafting and filing the complaint, undergoing discovery, engaging in settlement negotiations, and proceeding to trial if necessary. Our team will guide you through each of these steps, providing support and expertise to ensure the process is as seamless as possible. 

Yes, we offer free consultations to assess your case and discuss your legal options. There is no obligation to proceed after the consultation, and we ensure you have the information needed to make an informed decision about your next steps. 

If we do not win your case, you won’t owe us anything. Our contingency fee structure ensures that you only pay if we successfully secure a favorable outcome on your behalf, relieving you of any financial risk.