Is Noise Affecting the Safety of Health Care?

 A recent position paper calls out surgical practitioners and technology for contributing to distractions in surgical settings.

Distraction is a part of modern medical care.  Nursing staff are routinely overwhelmed with thousands of alarms per shift.  During a surgical procedure, noise and distraction increase the likelihood that a surgical error or never event could occur.

In the position paper published in the Aorn Journal, a publication on Perioperative Nursing, the authors describe what could be going on in the operating room where you are hoping your surgical team is paying the utmost attention to your surgery.  It might be something like this:

• Routine noise is emitted by monitors, necessary equipment, and alarms relative to patient care
• Members of the surgical team could be inattentive due to cell phone calls, texting, pagers, and communication from staff outside of the operating room
• The paper reports approximately 55 percent of perfusionists who responded (specialists who operate heart-lung bypass machines during cardiac surgery) reported using cell phones during a procedure, while almost 50 percent noted they had sent a text message during a surgical event
• Other types of electronic activities that occur within the OR setting include social media messaging, Internet searches, and gaming

It is not a stretch to assume that the distraction of a surgical team member creates a gap in the process intended to secure a healthy outcome for the patient on the table.  In addition to impacting the ability of a surgical team to communicate, distractions and noise increase the possibility of wrong site surgery and the likelihood of complications.

The paper does not suggest surgical teams are irresponsible, but proposes respect for the amount of noise and interruptive activities in a normal surgical setting.  The perioperative setting, when surgery takes place, is one of critical care, requiring focused attention and precise skills.  Add unnecessary electronic devices and personal activities to a setting wherein the long-term health or survival of a patient is at stake and the possibility of an error increases.

At a minimum, the authors suggest defining the phases of surgery where minimal interruption and maximum attention are required.  Referred to as a “zone of silence,” “sterile cockpit,” or “red zone,” these phases require the full attention of the surgical team member.  These could occur during time-outs, surgical counts, procedures around anesthesia, and at other times.

Unfortunately, the patient is not always the focus of full attention in surgical settings.  If you, or a loved one, is injured during a surgical procedure—speak with an experienced injury attorney at our office.

Experienced medical malpractice attorneys serving Washington, DC and Maryland

With more than 35 years of successfully taking on physicians and healthcare institutions on behalf of injured patients, our legal team at Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. provides unsurpassed legal representation and advice. Contact us today or call us at 410-234-1000 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

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Amid Challenges, Number of Primary Care Physicians May Decline

 A recent survey reveals the impact of the COVID-19 crises on Primary Care physicians.  As a result, their patients may neglect their health or lose accessible healthcare altogether.

The COVID-19 pandemic has reset how we live, who we interact with, and the products and services to which we have access.  Of those, medical care has been a continued hotspot in the US—how to get needed care for symptoms of the novel coronavirus, how to maintain health when chronically ill with other diseases, and how to get basic health care during times of community viral spread.

Primary Care physicians (PCPs) are an historically valuable component of any healthy community.  Primary Care practices often provide a mix of Family Medicine (across age ranges) and Internal Medicine.  From the days of the Family doctor arriving in a horse and buggy to today, when patients can often take advantage of a full-service contemporary medical practice serving inter-generational needs, PCPs occupy an important niche in health care.

According to a survey from the Primary Care Collaborative in partnership with the Larry A. Green Center, the overall fitness of Primary Care practices has suffered at a time when communities need more robust health care than ever before.

The survey represents the responses of 636 practitioners in 47 states from settings including office practices in city and rural settings, schools, community health centers, and patient-centered care facilities.  Some key points of the survey include:

• The survey fielded responses from August 1, 2020 to August 24, 2020. In that time, two percent of responding practices closed, two percent were considering bankruptcy and an additional ten percent were unable to project their business solvency past the next month. These practitioners see an increase in need for primary care and a decrease in support and guidance from policy makers regarding financial and economic hardship due to the pandemic.
• Practices across the country are seeing an increase in food, financial, and housing insecurity in their patients. These anxieties translate to increased disease including weight gain, emotional and mental exhaustion, increase in substance abuse and decrease in self-care among patient populations. Despite diminishing resources, some medical practices are trying to help patients as they are able with food, housing, and financial insecurity. Some are strengthening relationships with social and public health services in order to help their patients with the strain.
• At the same time, a number of practices facing resource and financial shortfalls have had to cut back staff hours, preventative health and educational services, and struggled with staffing as personnel are exposed, in quarantine, or ill.

The healthcare network in the US is strained to breaking in portions of the country.  Reduced access to care means critical treatment is missed and conditions that could be caught through diagnostic testing may be delayed.  Physicians operating under stress in the surgical suite or during an office visit may make a mistake or miss a symptom.

Leadership and economic support are important for physicians and their patients to come through this crisis. Without it, Primary Care physicians may be absorbed into hospital specialty groups or simply give up their practices—leaving patients without the care they need.

Skilled legal help with medical malpractice in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and throughout the country

Representing clients injured by error and negligence, Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. is a leading medical malpractice law firm with a strong track record of winning complex cases against physicians and healthcare facilities.  Contact us today or call 410-234-1000 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

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Migraines During Pregnancy Can be More than ‘Just a Headache’

 Pregnant women who experience migraines may be at a higher risk of stroke, according to recent research.

Along with the aches, pains, hunger, and nausea that sometimes accompany pregnancy, many women experience severe headaches or migraines.  Because of the hormonal fluctuations of pregnancy, women who usually get migraine headaches may be afflicted less—or more—until and after they give birth. Sometimes these conditions are passed off by healthcare providers as a common side effect of pregnancy.

A study published in JAMA Neurology suggests that migraine during pregnancy may increase maternal risk of both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.  An ischemic stroke occurs when a clot or embolism blocks or slows blood supply to the brain.  A hemorrhagic stroke results from the bursting of a weak blood vessel that breaks within or on the surface of the brain.  Both are dangerous medical conditions that require emergency treatment.

The increased risk of stroke appears to be related to hypertensive disorders sometimes experienced during pregnancy. “Hypertensive disorder” is a broad term that captures conditions related to high blood pressure disorders of pregnancy, including preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and associated conditions.

In this study, researchers evaluated data from three million singleton births that occurred between January 2007 and December 2012.  The aim of the research was to explore the involvement of hypertensive disorder in the relationship between migraines and maternal stroke.

The study found that hypertensive disorders put women who suffer migraines at higher risk of stroke.  Here are some points of the study:

• Within the study data, 26,440 women were diagnosed with migraines (or 914 of 100,000 births).
• 843 women (29 of each 100,000 births) suffered a stroke. Of these, 58% were ischemic strokes.
• Analysis reveals hypertensive disorders were associated with 21 percent of stroke risk during pregnancy, and 27 percent of stroke risk in the postpartum period.

Study authors note, “Approximately one-fourth of the excess cases of maternal stroke associated with migraine were attributable to hypertensive disorders. This suggests that other pathways exist between migraine and stroke during the perinatal period, potentially through pathophysiologic changes, such as increased blood volume and cerebral circulation.”

While headache is common during pregnancy, migraine may give rise to more serious complications during and after pregnancy.  If you or a family member is pregnant and experiences migraine, be sure to speak with your physician about concerns and monitoring for hypertensive disorder, because sometimes a headache is not just a headache.

Knowledgeable malpractice attorneys fight for compensation on your behalf

Whether from misdiagnosis, failure to diagnose, or medical mistake, Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. delivers experienced, skilled legal service to individuals and families hurt by poor standards of healthcare. Contact us today or call 410-234-1000.

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Nine Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. Attorneys Recognized as 2021 Super Lawyers®

 The skilled and knowledgeable attorneys of Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. are deeply committed to providing medical malpractice plaintiffs with the highest quality of legal representation. Since our opening day in 1984, we have recovered more than one billion dollars for our clients. Our award-winning attorneys have earned a wide range of distinctions from prestigious organizations such as Best Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell, and – once again – the national attorney rating agency, Super Lawyers®.

This distinguished annual award is bestowed on only five percent of attorneys nationwide in 2021. We are pleased to announce that six of our highly respected partners and three of our accomplished associates have been included on this prominent list in 2021:

• Jonathan Schochor, a founder and senior managing partner of our firm, was recently recognized as one of the Top 100 Litigation Lawyers in the State of Maryland by the American Society of Legal Advocates. He has also achieved recognition from many other prestigious organizations, including being named Trial Lawyer of the Year by the Maryland Association of Justice as well as the 2016 Lawyer of the Year for plaintiffs’ medical malpractice by Best Lawyers in America®. Mr. Schochor also led the Class Action litigation involving Nikita Levy, M.D., a gynecologist who sexually abused his patients. The case resulted in a $190 million settlement purported to be the largest single perpetrator, sexual assault settlement in U.S. history at that time.
• Philip C. Federico, a senior partner with Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A., is one of our distinguished founders. Among his numerous awards and recognitions, he has been named a Maryland Super Lawyer™ Top 100 Lawyers every year since 2012, and was designated as one of the Top 100 Attorneys in Maryland™ in 2010 and 2011.
• Kerry D. Staton is a founding partner of Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. whose unyielding dedication to medical malpractice plaintiffs has resulted in numerous recognitions.  In addition to receiving the Maryland Super Lawyers® Top 100 Lawyers award every year since 2012, he has also been elected as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, an honor that is only bestowed upon the top 1% of lawyers in each state. Mr. Staton has been recognized as Lawyer of the Year® for plaintiffs’ medical malpractice in Baltimore twice, in 2013 and 2018 by Best Lawyers In America®, an organization which has recognized him annually since 2008.
• James D. Cardea, a partner with Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A., has been selected for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America™ since 2011. Mr. Cardea has also been recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Maryland™ by The American Trial Lawyers Association and a Top 100 Litigation Lawyer in the State of Maryland by the American Society of Legal Advocates. In 2018 and 2019, Mr. Cardea was included as one of the 10 Best Attorneys for Maryland by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys.
• Scott P. Kurlander, a partner with Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A., is widely respected for his knowledge of medical malpractice. His numerous accolades include being named to the Best Lawyers in America™ since 2011. He has been a Maryland Super Lawyer every year since 2009 and has been a member of the invitation only Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the MultiMillion Dollar Advocates Forum. He is a member of the Board of Governors of the Maryland Association of Justice. Mr. Kurlander is frequently asked to deliver presentations to a variety of audiences, including lawyers, paralegals, medical students and various physician groups. He recently taught a class on medical malpractice for all judges in the State of Maryland at the Judicial College of Maryland. Mr. Kurlander volunteers his time in numerous professional organizations and committees, including Peer Review for the Attorney Grievance Commission of Maryland, the Judicial Evaluation Committee for the Baltimore City Bar Association and the MAJ Legislative Committee amongst others.
• Jonathan E. Goldberg is a Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. partner who has served as the co-chair of the Medical Malpractice Subcommittee of the Health Law Section of the American Bar Association. He has given several lectures and presentations in the areas of medical malpractice issues throughout the state of Maryland. Prior to representing clients injured due to medical negligence, Mr. Goldberg spent approximately 14 years defending health care providers in medical malpractice lawsuits.
• Aubrey Wray Fitch, IV is an Associate who was designated a Rising Star by Super Lawyers®, a distinction that only 2.5 percent of Maryland attorneys achieve every year. Mr. Fitch earned his Juris Doctor from The George Washington University Law School in 2011 with high honors. He is an experienced litigator who has also presented oral argument before the Court of Special Appeals of Maryland.
• Brent Ceryes is a valuable part of our team at Schochor, Federico and Staton. In his role as an Associate, Mr. Ceryes represents clients in a variety of mass tort and class action matters, including the representation of individuals exposed to potential bloodborne pathogens in an ambulatory surgery center, the representation of individuals affected by groundwater contamination and air pollution from industrial agriculture operations, and the representation of dozens of counties and municipalities in litigation against the manufacturers and distributors of opioid pain medication.
• Jonathan Huddleston, an Associate with Schochor, Federico and Staton, has been selected as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers®. Mr. Huddleston graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2008 and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Maryland School of Law in 2011. He co-chaired the education committee for the Young Lawyers Section during the 2018-2019 bar year and received the Maryland State Bar Association Young Lawyers’ Section award for “best committee.” This year, Mr. Huddleston was inducted into the Maryland Bar Foundation, as a Fellow. Fellowship in the Maryland Bar Foundation is by invitation only and is restricted to outstanding Maryland attorneys and judges not exceeding two and one-half percent (2.5%) of membership of the MSBA. He now utilizes his education and experience in his role as an exceptional litigator with our firm.

 

The Super Lawyer® selection process

The annual Super Lawyers® list results from months of peer reviews and extensive independent research. The selection process begins with nominations from peers and other legal professionals. The Super Lawyers® research team then evaluates each nominee using 12 indicators of professional achievement. To qualify as a Rising Star, a candidate must be 40 years old or younger, or in practice for ten years or less.

Once the pool of nominees is narrowed, a blue-ribbon peer review is conducted to determine who will be chosen as Super Lawyers®. Only about five percent of all attorneys ever receive this reputable designation, and we are proud that they are with our firm.

Fighting for medical malpractice plaintiffs across Washington DC, Maryland and Baltimore

The award-winning attorneys of Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A., advocate for people injured by medical malpractice. We are proud that our peers have chosen to acknowledge the efforts of our partners. We appreciate the knowledge and skill of these nine attorneys and congratulate each of them for this prestigious recognition.

For more information about Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. or the Super Lawyers® selection process, call our office at 410-234-1000.

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Study Suggests Longer Hourly Shifts May Not Translate to More Medical Errors

 Fear of overtired medical residents may be misplaced.  A new study found that residents working 24-hour shifts don’t necessarily make more errors than colleagues working shifts of 16 hours or less.

A study and opinion piece in the New England Journal of Medicine looks at the schedules given to medical residents and the impact of schedules on patient safety.

Medical error is rampant in the practice of medicine in America today.  Occurring at all levels of care, medical malpractice happens every day, oftentimes unnoticed, but sometimes with deadly serious consequences for patients and their families.

Resident physicians and their often-grueling work schedules are a prominent example used when discussing fatigue that leads to a host of medical errors.  In recent years, scheduling policies for first-year residents have gone back and forth in response to the public conversation about medical fatigue and medical error.

The new NEJM study looked at the length of shifts and the likelihood of medical error in shorter and longer shifts.  Over six facilities, researchers evaluated the impact of scheduling on pediatric resident physicians working in intensive care units. Results were obtained by direct observation, close surveillance, and chart review. Here is what they found:

• Residents who worked controlled shifts of less than 24-hours had higher rates of preventable adverse events, made more medical errors, and had more near misses
• Residents working 24-hour or more shifts made fewer medical mistakes despite working longer hours than those who worked less

Digging into the data, study authors found that the three sites with the highest number of errors also had the highest number of patients.  Although patient volume was not the focus of the study, it may not be the hour of the night that impacts medical error for residents, but how many patients a physician is driven to see that increases or decreases the number of medical mistakes made on any shift.

While these findings turned over enough data to find that higher patient volume may lead to increased medical error, it will always be true that fatigue and distraction contribute to mistakes and confusion.

Research continues into the ways and means to reduce medical mistakes made by physicians, and other healthcare providers, nursing staff, and institutions.  If you suffer medical negligence, speak with our legal team today.

Providing unsurpassed legal service to Maryland patients injured by medical malpractice

Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. has more than 35 years of successful experience representing clients and their families injured through medical negligence.  When you suffer serious injury due to the fault of others in Baltimore, Washington, DC, or elsewhere in the US, we can help. Contact us or call 410-234-1000 to schedule a free consultation today.

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More Surgical Checklists, Fewer Errors?

 Recent research suggests using two surgical checklists together may result in fewer medical errors and less harm to patients.

Checklists are an important part of patient safety.  In a surgical setting, careful attention to checklists can reduce serious mistakes, like wrong-site or wrong person surgeries.  We recently talked about the importance of the surgical time-out that is part of the checklist process. Overall, checklists draw attention to surgical detail and aim to improve surgical team function and culture.

In 2013, the rate of medical error in the United States was placed at approximately 400,000 deaths per year—and that was seven years ago. The rate continues to rise as do efforts to stem the very human mistakes that lead to injury and death caused by medical negligence.  Checklists are part of that effort. Two widely used surgical checklists include the World Health Organization surgical safety checklist (WHO SSC) and the Surgical Patient Safety System checklist (SURPASS).

While you might think two checklists are a bit much, they do not primarily overlap.  Here are some differences:

• SURPASS: The SURPASS list ensures that admission concerns leading up to surgery including radiology, lab work, blood products, and medications are accounted for by individuals responsible for that work.

This list picks up in the Recovery room, the intensive care unit, or wherever the patient bed is located.  Instructions about medications, post-surgical care, and follow-up are maintained until the patient is discharged.  At that time, the SURPASS checklist aids caregivers in discharging the patient appropriately with needed medications and instruction.

• WHO SSC: The WHO list carefully lists procedures that should occur prior to anesthesia, prior to incision and after the procedure, before the patient is taken from the operating room. The WHO SC list brings focus to the role and responsibility of individual team members throughout the surgical experience.

Surprisingly, the two checklists are not used jointly.  Not surprisingly, a recent study published in JAMA surgery found significant benefits to the use of the two checklists together.  Looking at data from approximately 9,000 surgical procedures in three hospitals, the primary benefits of using both checklists include:

• Fewer surgical complications
• Drop in the number of surgeries repeated
• Reduced rate in hospital readmissions

To answer the question posed by the headline—more surgical checklists, fewer errors?  When used correctly, the answer from this research appears to be “yes.”

Speak with knowledgeable malpractice attorneys if you suffer an injury during medical care 

If you suffer injury as a result of medical care, our legal team delivers aggressive legal representation to obtain compensation on your behalf.  Talk with an attorney who will listen to what happened and answer your questions about seeking compensation. Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. delivers experienced, skilled legal services to individuals and families hurt by medical mistake. Contact us today or call 410-234-1000.

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Executive Order Makes Telehealth Services Permanent through CMS in Some Areas

 A recent Executive Order is aimed at expanding telehealth options in rural areas.

Just months ago, telehealth was a sideline of many medical practice groups. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth services took center stage as in-person care became dangerous for patient and provider.  Recent statistics show 0.1 percent of Medicare primary care visits were conducted by telehealth in February, 2020.  By April, 43 percent of Medicare primary care visits were conducted remotely.

As hospital and care centers closed shop on elective and non-emergency procedures, many practices and their patients turned to remote care for advice and assessment.  In August of this year, President Trump signed an Executive Orderfocused on healthcare consumers who live in rural areas.

Points addressed by the Order include:

• Approximately 57 million people live in rural areas that are under-served by medical facilities, primary care physicians, and specialists. Because of these limitations, those living in rural area lack access to quality care and are more likely to suffer from heart disease, chronic respiratory illnesses, and cancer.
• Across the country, telehealth visits jumped as the country locked down as a result of the pandemic. With staged reopenings across the country, telehealth visits have remained high, even as physicians’ offices have resumed scheduling visits.  The ongoing high rate of remote healthcare could be an indicator that telehealth is here to stay.
• To improve access to healthcare and acknowledge the continued use of telehealth, the Order directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop new payment models and reduce regulatory restrictions that make telehealth either unaffordable or unavailable in rural settings.
• The Order directs agencies involved in the delivery of care to develop plans to build out communications infrastructure, as well as provide direction on addressing maternal health care and improving mental health services.

In a short period of time, telehealth has come become a primary mode of delivery in many healthcare practices. Bundled with healthcare portals, and electronic health records, telehealth offers improved access and convenience for more than just rural populations.

Yet beneath the rush to offer desperately needed healthcare during a pandemic remain questions about the types of healthcare services that can be offered remotely and those that cannot.  Serious concerns remain about illnesses and conditions that could be misdiagnosed via telehealth and what types of medical errors will inevitably occur as this new delivery mode becomes more prevalent across the country.

With or without this Executive Order, it is unlikely that the United States will turn back from telehealth. If you or a family member suffer serious medical injury or error due to remote or other type of healthcare service, speak with our experienced legal team about your circumstances.

Experienced injury lawyers fight for compensation on your behalf in Baltimore and Washington, DC

Serving injured patients around the country from offices in Baltimore, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. is a highly reputable medical malpractice law firm working on behalf of clients injured by mistake or negligence. Call 410-234-1000 or contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your injury.

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Research Evaluates Newborn Blood Test for Type 1 Diabetes

 Researchers are optimistic about the development of a test that provides early warning of the development of Type 1 diabetes in babies and young children.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not make enough insulin for normal cell function.  While Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age, it often becomes apparent in young or middle childhood.

Type 1 diabetes is different from Type 2 diabetes in that individuals who have Type 1 diabetes simply do not have enough insulin, whereas Type 2 patients do not respond efficiently to the insulin their bodies do produce.  About five to ten percent of those who have diabetes suffer from Type 1 diabetes.

Either condition can lead to dangerously high blood sugar.  In children, as in adults, diabetes of either type can cause ketoacidosis, an overload of blood acids called “ketones.”  Part of the drive behind the current research published in the journal Nature was to develop an effective newborn test for Type 1 diabetes is to avoid ketoacidosis, a severe complication of diabetes and sometimes the first event that signals to parents that their child is suffering from Type 1 diabetes.

For parents and child, the development of Type 1 diabetes can be frightening if earlier, mild symptoms of the condition are not recognized by a primary care physician.

Notes lead author, Dr Lauric Ferrat, “At the moment, 40 percent of children who are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes have the severe complication of ketoacidosis. For the very young this is life-threatening, resulting in long intensive hospitalizations and in some cases, even paralysis or death.”

Using data from the Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young Study (TEDDY), researchers at seven international sites followed 7,798 children between the ages of one and nine years who were at high risk of developing Type 1 diabetes.  Scientists were able to combine factors to create a scoring test that significantly improves accurate prediction of which babies might be at risk of developing Type 1 diabetes.  Factors figured into the score include:

• Family history
• Genetics
• Presence of specific biomarkers associated with Type 1 diabetes

Another researcher, Dr. William Hagopian remarked, “We’re really excited by these findings. They suggest that the routine heel prick testing of babies done at birth, could go a long way towards preventing early sickness as well as predicting which children will get type 1 diabetes years later.”

The next step is to begin a trial of the new test in Washington State. If successful, the new test could take some of the guesswork out of the diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes and help children and their parents understand the condition before it becomes a medical emergency.

Speak with an experienced medical malpractice attorney today

When you suffer serious or catastrophic injury after seeking healthcare, our law firm can help.

Our legal team has more than 35 years of successful experience helping those hurt by medical malpractice.  Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. delivers experienced, skilled legal services and compassionate client service to individuals and families hurt by medical mistake. Contact us today or call 410-234-1000.

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Study suggests Surgical Risk Reduced by treating Appendicitis with Antibiotics

 A recent study reaffirms antibiotics could be a viable option for children suffering from appendicitis.

The appendix is a vestigial organ, a short tubular segment of intestine attached to your colon on the lower right side with no active known use.  At present there is some suggestion by researchers that the appendix may be a reservoir for useful bacteria, but the organ is considered expendable when it becomes obstructed and inflamed, a condition called appendicitis.    Left untreated, the appendix can expand and eventually burst, spilling infection into the abdominal cavity, a dangerous and potentially deadly condition known as peritonitis.

Appendicitis is the most common cause of emergency abdominal surgery, impacting about 80,000 children each year.  While appendicitis is most common in people ten to 30 years of age, appendicitis can occur at any time throughout life.

While surgical removal of the appendix is the most common treatment option, ongoing research supports the viability of antibiotics as a means of treating appendicitis without the risks associated with open or laparoscopic surgery.  Complications and error can occur with any surgery leading to infection, inadvertent removal of only part of the appendix, blockage of the bowels, incisional hernia, or other mistaken injury to internal organs during the procedure.

A recent study published in the journal JAMA Network provides additional support to earlier studies suggesting treatment with antibiotics reduces surgical risk and days to recovery for children with uncomplicated appendicitis (when the appendix has not become so inflamed that it has burst or been perforated).

Antibiotics as an alternative to surgery 

Researchers reviewed data from 1068 patients.  Of these, 67.1 percent of patients who opted for antibiotics instead of surgery were successfully treated, suffering no side effects and losing less time to recovery than patients who had an appendectomy.

For children, that result means less pain and suffering and quicker return to day-to-day activities.   The study notes patients provided antibiotics were those who had been in pain less than 48 hours, underwent imaging studies to confirm the appendix had not ruptured, and met standards with regard to their white blood cell count.

Lead investigator, Dr. Peter Minneci stated, “For surgery, patients need to go under general anesthesia, and there is 1-2% chance of a major complication and 5-10% chance of a minor complication.” Change is slow, but when indicated, antibiotics may become a leading treatment for uncomplicated appendicitis without resorting to surgery.

Let us help if you are harmed by medical malpractice 

The law firm of Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. has returned over $1 billion in compensation to clients since our founding in 1984. We serve clients throughout the country from offices in Baltimore, Maryland, and Washington, DC.  Contact us or call 410-234-1000 today to set up a free consultation to discuss your case.

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Healthy Living: States with the Best and Worst Health Care

 You may already have an opinion, but a new survey ranks state health care from best to worst.

While everyone enjoys checking out rankings, the difference between the “best” and the “worst” health care can hurt or even kill you, or a family member. It is no joke to learn your state falls well below average in healthcare outcomes.

In this survey, a personal finance company made a careful assessment using 44 different metrics, each of which had a 100-point rating scale. These metrics were applied within three basic categories, cost, access, and outcomes.  While that may seem pretty broad, these three factors bear on the decisions that Americans make every day about their health care.  Where can they get care, how much does it cost—and can I expect that the outcome will likely be good?

Before we get to the fun stuff, let’s take a look at some of the measures within each category:

• Cost: This metric looks at the cost of a medical visit, an inpatient admission, dental visit, out of pocket and insurance spending, and how many adults go without medical care due to cost, among other factors.
• Access: This factor looks at issues that include the state health infrastructure, number of beds, quality of the public health system, number of healthcare providers (includes physicians, nurses, and many other practitioners) per capita, emergency response time, emergency department wait times, number of insured people (including adults and children).
• Outcome: This important category is broken down into maternal and infant mortality rates, readmission rates, patients discharged without homecare instructions, numbers of adults who have no medical or dental care, the number of non-immunized children, number of people with heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, among other factors.

These very serious metrics spell the difference between those in this country who have access to quality healthcare and those that do not.  Let’s take a look at some of the best and worst:

• Top ten states with the best quality health care: Massachusetts, Minnesota, Rhode Island, District of Columbia, North Dakota, Vermont, Colorado, Iowa, Hawaii, ad South Dakota
• The ten states that represent the worst quality health care in the US: Georgia, Louisiana, Alabama, North Carolina, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, South Carolina, Texas, Alaska
• States with the lowest infant mortality rates: New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oregon, Massachusetts, California
• States with the highest infant mortality rates: West Virginia, South Carolina, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi

In the survey, Maryland came in at number 16.  This survey speaks truth to the sub-standard quality of care suffered by many Americans across this country.  By taking a hard look at real factors that we all consider when assessing how to maintain our health, the survey offers thoughtful perspective on what to watch out for in your state or region.

The worst time to wonder about the quality of your healthcare is after you suffer a medication or surgical error that causes serious injury.  An informed healthcare consumer asks questions, understands the health advice they are given, and keeps tabs on costs.  Even then, medical mistakes happen—if they happen to you, reach out to our law firm, we can help.

Highly reputable injury attorneys help you after serious medical injury

Recognized for excellence in legal service, the law firm of Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. delivers aggressive representation if a loved one is injured due to medical malpractice.  Serving clients nationwide from offices in Baltimore, Maryland, and Washington, DC, we offer a free consultation.  Contact us or call 410-234-1000 today.

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Jonathan Schochor Receives The Daily Record 2020 Icon Honor

 Jonathan Schochor, Founding Senior Managing Partner of Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. is named one of The Daily Record’s 2020 Icon Honors winners.

Established in 2017, Icon Honors recognizes Maryland business leaders who have a long-standing commitment to the business community. Winners were selected based on success and strong leadership both within and outside of their chosen field. The honorees have moved their businesses and the state of Maryland forward by growing jobs and making a difference in the community. They are mentors, leaders and innovators.

“This year’s Icon Honors recipients exhibit an impressive record of accomplishment, leadership and vision. They represent a level of professional achievement and community awareness and action that is truly remarkable,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, group publisher of The Daily Record. “They also mentor the next generation and serve as examples for all of us. The Daily Record is pleased to recognize them.”

A history of providing support to those in need 

Since 1984, Jonathan Schochor has served as the senior managing partner for Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. For over 35 years, Mr. Schochor and his firm have provided exceptional representation to individuals and whole groups of people who are the victims of medical malpractice, negligence and the wrongful acts of others. Additionally, Mr. Schochor has a strong belief in supporting community efforts. His dedication to service, philanthropy as well as his genuine desire to make meaningful social impact speaks volumes of his character. The firm’s commitment to volunteering, and the financial support of charities stems from Mr. Schochor’s leadership and guidance.

Offering excellence in legal service when you or a loved one suffers injury from malpractice

Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. has more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families recover from negligence and malpractice.  From offices in Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland, our legal team serves clients across the US who suffer due to the negligence of others.  Contact us or call 410-234-1000 to schedule a free consultation.

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Reducing Adverse Medication Events with AI

 Adverse drug reactions (ADR) caused by medication errors are one of the most common forms of medical mistake.  A new learning tool that evaluates drug interactions at the molecular level may reduce drug injury to patients.

Researchers behind a new study published in the journal EBio Medicine developed an open-source machine learning tool that could provide greater understanding of drugs associated with adverse drug reactions.  In the past, our knowledge of drug toxicities and interactions has grown through observation, experimentation, and the creation and maintenance of pharma databases that capture drug toxicities.

While databases provide searchable information, the new algorithm developed in this study is able to dynamically review and compare proteins that are at the base of adverse drug reactions.  In addition to providing known data, the algorithm uses artificial intelligence to compare data from multiple databases and suggest drug interactions.

For the study, researchers used a database containing information on drugs involved with ADR and a different database that identifies 184 proteins already known to interact with specific drugs.  Overall, the study involved 2134 marketed drugs.  Researchers created an algorithm to mesh this information and were able to identify 221 interactions between specific proteins and adverse drug reactions.  These associations are useful for understanding which proteins are likely to interact poorly (and result in a bad outcome) with certain drugs.

Rather than stand as a new static resource for Pharma development, the new tool can be shown new information on which to build and compare reactions and interactions between compounds already evaluated by the tool, and suggest how they might interact with human biology for the better or the worse.

Notes study co-author, Robert Ietswaart, “Machine learning is not a silver bullet for drug discovery, but I do believe it can accelerate many different aspects in the difficult and long process of developing new medicines.”

In addition to identifying potential candidates for adverse reactions, the tool could make experimental drugs safer in human clinical trials. Ietswaart explained, “This could reduce the risks that study participants face during the first in-human clinical trials and minimize risks for patients if a drug gains FDA approval and enters clinical use.”

Machine-learning may provide a new tool for an old problem.  Safer pharmacology means safer medical care—and possibly less danger each time you pick up a prescription at the pharmacy.

Trusted Washington, D.C. and Maryland attorneys deliver aggressive legal representation on your behalf

The attorneys at Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. deliver strong legal support to those who suffer medical malpractice or negligent injury in Maryland, Washington, D.C., or across the nation. We have obtained more than $1 billion in compensation for our injured clients in the past 36 years.  Contact us or call 410-234-1000 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your injury.

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History of Multiple Head Hits Increases Risk of Depression in Later Life

 A recent study suggests that people with a history of head hits are more likely to suffer cognitive difficulties and depression as the years pass.

In the past decade, research has turned a spotlight on traumatic brain injury.  Through national and international brain research initiatives and a focus on sports-related concussion, our knowledge of traumatic brain injury (TBI) continues to provide answers, and provoke new questions.

Recent research published in the journal Neurology looked at data from the medical records of 13,323 patients over the age of 40 who participate in the Brain Health Registry. The Registry has dual aims of collecting observational data submitted by volunteers to the site, and helping to identify participants for national clinical trials.  Through these efforts the Registry hopes to identify and test potential treatments for those who suffer from brain injury and disorders including PTSD, depression, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, among others.

From the data set studied, researchers identified approximately five percent of participants (or about 725 people) who self-reported previous experience with head impacts through sports, military service, or physical abuse. Participants also completed assessment surveys on cognitive function and experience of depressive symptoms. Researchers also noted whether the TBI was—or was not—accompanied by loss of consciousness.

Supporting the findings of earlier studies, the research found that those who had suffered head impacts earlier in life were more likely to report depression and cognitive troubles than those who had not suffered concussive head hits.

The research reports on the “dosage” factor of head impacts and its relation to later neurological symptoms.  Individuals with no history of head injury were least likely to report depression and other cognitive difficulties.  Participants who suffered a head hit, or multiple head hits were correspondingly more likely to report problems with memory, emotional control, and thinking.  Lastly, those with a history of repetitive head trauma with loss of consciousness were at higher risk than all other categories for reporting cognitive difficulties.

Dr. Michael Alosco, co-director of the BU Alzheimer’s Disease Center, said, “The findings underscore that repetitive hits to the head, such as those from contact sport participation or physical abuse, might be associated with later-life symptoms of depression.”

Researchers note the observational quality of the data and that empirical information about the actual contact events reported by the participants is unknown.  Having a history of multiple head trauma does not guarantee a future of cognitive difficulty, but it can provide early warning for participants and others with similar backgrounds to watch for symptoms and get help when needed.

There is currently no cure for any brain disorder or a fix for brain injury.  Studies like this one provide common ground for those who have suffered brain injury and whose data may provide better treatment or a cure for those who suffer neurological injury and disease in the future.

Providing unsurpassed legal service to Maryland patients injured by medical malpractice

Well-respected in the legal community, Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. has more than 35 years of successful experience representing clients and their families injured through medical negligence.  When you suffer serious medical injury due to the fault of others in Washington, DC, Baltimore, or elsewhere in the US, we can help. Contact us or call 410-234-1000 to schedule a free consultation today.

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Schochor, Federico and Staton Did It Again! We were Voted Number One in All Three Key Categories

 Top Winner for Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury, and Civil Litigation

Once again, Schochor, Federico and Staton, PA has been voted the Top Winner for 2020 by The Daily Record’s readers as the Best Law Firm in Maryland for Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury, and Civil Litigation. Our firm has been named Top Winner for three years in a row by the readers of The Daily Record. First recognized in 2018, our firm has been awarded the Top Winner in each of the categories in which we were nominated. Schochor, Federico and Staton acknowledges the well-earned recognition of our firm, and we continue to commit our legal services to individuals and communities who are victims of medical malpractice, mass tort, or other negligence.

The Daily Record – Maryland’s premier source for regional business, legal, and government news – gives readers and business leaders the opportunity every year to nominate candidates for best-in-class providers across a number of service categories.

The winners of each category were announced virtually on October 12 in a video format. The honorees were also featured in a special publication inserted in The Daily Record. Schochor, Federico and Staton, PA was the Top Winner in all three categories in which it was a finalist.

Knowledgeable legal representation in your time of need

The mission of Schochor, Federico and Staton, PA is to provide exemplary legal representation to individuals and groups of people who are victims of negligence. Founded in 1984, our firm remains committed to providing exceptional service to our clients. Our skilled team works closely together to help bring justice to our community and fair compensation to victims of negligent and reckless behavior. Our shared values of compassion and commitment drive us in the workplace and support us as we help others.

Recovering over $1 billion for our clients, we hold the highest ranking offered by ratings company Martindale-Hubbell.

Offering Excellence in Legal Service in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, DC

Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. provides knowledgeable legal representation when you or a loved one suffers injury or death through the mistake or negligence of others. We are proud that The Daily Record readers have recognized our efforts with their votes. Our firm serves clients throughout Maryland and the District of Columbia. Contact us or call (410) 234-1000 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case today.

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New Study: In 10 Hours Viral Sample Spreads Across Entire Hospital Ward

 A recent study showed viral material on a bedrail in a hospital ward was found throughout the unit a mere ten hours later.

Hospitals are critical for providing healthcare and maintaining the safety and wellness of a community.  Because hospitals are where people go when they are sick, most people are also aware that serious infections circulate within those same hospitals.  Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) afflict one in 31 hospitalized patients throughout the US every day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc upon health, lives, and global economies, many people have heightened awareness of the easy spread of disease.  But in hospitals, even as we wash our hands, viral material is moving rapidly to colonize surfaces in common contact with patients.

In an editorial study published in The Journal of Hospital Infection, researchers used viral material inapplicable to humans to simulate the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.  Like other viruses, SARS-2 is opportunistic and will spread where hygiene protocols fail.

For this study, researchers placed the viral material on the handrail of a bed in an isolation room intended for critically ill and contagious patients. For the next five days, the study authors sampled 44 designated spots throughout the hospital ward (outside the isolation room) for five days. Findings included the following:

• Within 10 hours, the viral material had spread to 41 percent of the designated testing spots in the hospital unit. It was found on armrests, children’s toys, books, and door handles.
• After three days, the virus had spread to 59 percent of the designated sample sites before the dropping again to infection of 41 percent of the testing sites.
• In the study, there was only one site from which contagion could spread, and that was an inert bedrail. In more common circumstances, a patient with any form of contagious illness is appreciably more dynamic in terms of movement, respiration, and coughing or sneezing.

Viral and bacterial material spreads easily.  This study highlights the necessity of appropriate sanitation protocols in hospitals to stop contagion before it impacts those who are counting on their hospital admission to help them feel better—not worse.

Aggressive malpractice attorneys fight for compensation on your behalf

The law firm of Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. delivers experienced, skilled legal services to those who suffer illness or harm due to a HAI or other medical negligence. With offices in Washington D.C. and Baltimore, we serve patients across the United States.  Contact us today or call 410-234-1000 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

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