Dentist liable for medical errors?

Questioner

My dentist made one medical error after another, which ultimately resulted in me having to undergo root canal treatment for 2 teeth by an endodontist. This not only caused me a great deal of pain and stress, but I am now also left with a high bill - costs that would not have been necessary if my dentist had referred me to a specialist immediately. Part of the costs are reimbursed by my health insurance, but more than 500 euros are not reimbursed. I want to recover this amount from my dentist. My question to you is how I should proceed? And can I possibly hold her liable for compensation/pecuniary damages for the unnecessary physical and psychological suffering that she has caused? Kind regards, M.

Lawyer

I am sorry to hear about your situation. In general, a dentist in the Netherlands can indeed be held liable for damages suffered as a result of medical errors, because like any healthcare provider, they must exercise due care in their work. Start by documenting all treatments, communications and costs. It is important to prove that the dentist may have failed in his duty of care. You may consider filing a complaint with the dentist himself. He or she may then have the opportunity to respond to your complaint. If this does not result in a satisfactory response, or if the dentist ignores the complaint, you can contact the dentist's complaints procedure, which every healthcare provider must have in accordance with the Healthcare Quality, Complaints and Disputes Act (Wkkgz). If your complaint has not been resolved satisfactorily, you can submit a formal complaint to the Disputes Committee to which the dentist is affiliated. If this does not lead to a satisfactory result and you want to hold your dentist liable, it is advisable to seek legal assistance. You can hire a personal injury lawyer to advise you on the steps to be taken and your chances of success. You may indeed be able to claim compensation for pain and suffering if you can demonstrate that you have suffered psychological and physical suffering as a result of the medical errors. The amount of compensation depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of the injury and the impact on daily life. It is advisable to seek legal advice from a personal injury lawyer in such a case, as these matters can be very complex. Your specific situation, including the exact behavior of your dentist and the impact of the mistakes on your life, will be taken into account in the decision.' ---------------- Stichting Rechtswinkel.nl is a national organization with students and volunteers. The above advice is based on limited information and may be incomplete or even incorrect for your situation. Always consult a lawyer or attorney for your further steps. Read disclaimer: https://rechtswinkel.nl/disclaimer I would like to invite you to rate the above answer so that we can learn from your response.

Lawyer

What an annoying situation as I have read. Of course, the dentist is liable for the damage suffered and things done. If you contact me via email address: groenewegenjuristen@gmail.com or via this platform, I can provide you with free legal assistance and further information. Greetings, Mr. Groenewegen, J.

Lawyer

Dear questioner, Did you receive my response of December 6 in good order? I would like to hear from you further. Greetings, Mr. Groenewegen, J.

Lawyer

Dear questioner, Did you receive my response of December 6 in good order? I would like to hear from you further. Greetings, Mr. Groenewegen, J.