Epilepsy affects about 2.2 million, one in every 26 people, and ranks as one of the most common neurological problems. Epilepsy, in combination with other seizure disorders, is an important health concern. The death rate from epilepsy and seizures exceeds the death rate from breast cancer or from HIV and AIDS.
Medical malpractice litigation arising in connection with epilepsy and seizure disorders may involve claims that a physician or health care provider was negligent in diagnosing or treating these conditions. Diagnosis and treatment of these conditions often is challenging. Litigation has resulted in awards and settlements in the millions of dollars.
Attorneys, physicians, hospitals, insurers, employers, and other potential parties to litigation should be aware of the types of lawsuits and other liability issues that arise in connection with the diagnosis or treatment of epilepsy and seizure disorders.