You may consider hiring a doula for a calmer, more relaxing birthing experience. A doula is a non-medical companion who can assist doctors and nurses by offering techniques to help a laboring mother cope with pain. A doula will not replace physicians or nurses but instead can help support your physical and emotional needs.
Our Harrisburg medical malpractice lawyers would like to discuss the benefits of hiring a doula and when they may be held medically liable.
Requirements for Becoming a Doula
Doulas can receive certification from the Doulas of North America (DONA) and the Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association (CAPPA). This training covers prenatal support, birthing, anatomy of pregnancy and child support, non-medical comfort services, labor support techniques, and lactation workshops.
In Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, individuals who want to become certified prenatal doulas are required to complete 24 hours of education and training in prenatal knowledge areas and provide CPR certification. This differs from most states that do not have specific requirements in place for a person to become a doula.
Benefits of Hiring a Doula
A doula can provide an expectant mother with the following:
- Different methods for coping with the stress and pain of delivery
- Decreasing the need for forceps-assisted and vacuum extraction deliveries
- Being an advocate for the patient’s birth plan desires
- Helping the patient navigate confusing situations
- Providing the patient with more attention
- Providing the patient with postpartum support
Can a Doula Be Held Liable for Medical Malpractice?
While a doula is most often a welcome addition to the birthing team, doulas are not medical professionals. A doula who discourages medical intervention or pressures you into certain medical decisions can be held accountable for any resultant harm to you or your baby.
Anytime a doula interferes with medical care, you most likely have a valid malpractice claim. If a doula’s interference causes death to the baby or mother, then the family may pursue a wrongful death suit. It is important that a doula understands his or her role and does not attempt to replace trained medical professionals.
How Can a Medical Malpractice Attorney Help Me?
If your injuries were caused by a doula’s actions, a Harrisburg medical malpractice attorney can assist you in investigating your matter. Evidence that may shed light on your case includes ultrasounds, fetal monitor strips, and prescription records. Additionally, your treating physician and support staff may be deposed. In reviewing this evidence, a malpractice attorney will determine if malpractice did occur.
If malpractice is evident, then your attorney can assist you in seeking damages. Damages are any costs related to your injuries, including surgeries, procedures, and any home mobility aid, as well as lost wages and pain and suffering. Under the Pennsylvania Constitution, there is no cap on compensatory damages in medical malpractice cases. However, punitive damages (designed to punish the wrongdoer) are limited to twice the number of compensatory damages.
Tenacious Representation from a Harrisburg Medical Malpractice Lawyer
If you have been injured or lost a loved one due to a doula’s negligence, you deserve compensation for your hardship. At Marzella and Associates, our Harrisburg, PA, medical malpractice lawyers are prepared to negotiate with the insurance company, not stopping until we win you the compensation you are entitled to. To learn more or to schedule your free consultation, contact us online or by phone today.