📲 WhatsApp

Porcelain Veneers Anesthesia Error in Cartagena: My Rights As A Foreign Patient

It’s 2 a.m., and you’re lying in bed, scrolling through your phone, your heart heavy with worry. After traveling all the way to Cartagena for porcelain veneers, you are now suffering from a distressing anesthesia error. You trusted the local dental professionals to enhance your smile, but instead, you’re left in pain and confusion. The uncertainty of your situation looms large. It feels overwhelming, and you just want to know what your rights are and how to get the justice you deserve.

What Just Happened to You Is Not Your Fault

First and foremost, take a deep breath. What happened to you is unfortunately not an isolated incident. Many women choose to come to Colombia, drawn by its promises of beautiful smiles at more affordable prices, only to experience complications like anesthesia errors. It’s essential to understand that these situations happen frequently, and they can leave you feeling vulnerable and scared. You’re not alone in this; many foreign patients encounter similar difficulties. This is not your fault, and it doesn’t define your worth as a patient or a person.

Is This Medical Malpractice in Colombia?

You may be wondering if what you experienced could be classified as medical malpractice under Colombian law. Simply put, if the anesthesia error resulted from a failure to adhere to standard medical practices—known as «lex artis”—then it may qualify as malpractice. This means that if the dental professional didn’t provide the level of care and safety you reasonably expected, they could be held liable. You deserve to know the facts so you can make informed decisions moving forward.

Why Colombia Is Different From the US or Canada

Navigating the legal waters in Colombia is a different ballgame compared to the U.S. or Canada. Here, contingency fees are not the norm, which means you’ll need to pay your lawyer upfront, and pursuing a case can take longer—up to 3-4 years. But don’t let that discourage you. Many doctors rely on foreign patients giving up, thinking that justice is out of reach. While the process may be longer and more complex, it is possible to seek justice for the pain and suffering you’ve experienced. This journey is challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone.

What You Should Do Right Now

Here are some immediate steps to consider while you gather your thoughts and prepare to act:

• Gather all medical records related to your procedure and anesthesia.
• Take pictures of any physical evidence of the anesthesia error and your current condition.
• Avoid signing any documents or agreements presented to you by healthcare providers until you have legal advice.
• Contact a medical malpractice lawyer in Colombia who understands the nuances of your situation.
• Don’t hesitate or delay—keep in mind that there’s typically a three-year statute of limitations to file a claim.

How Much Compensation Can You Recover?

Understanding the potential compensation can be important for your peace of mind. In cases of medical malpractice, including anesthesia errors, you may be able to recover compensation for various types of damages, such as:

• Physical damages including pain and suffering from your injuries
• Psychological harm, which can include anxiety, depression, or PTSD related to the experience
• Expenses for corrective surgeries needed to remedy the situation
• Lost income if you’re unable to work due to your condition
• Moral damages, which account for the emotional toll this has taken on you

It’s important to note that cases brought before the Colombian Supreme Court can sometimes result in compensation exceeding USD 500,000, depending on the severity and impact of your situation.

Talk to Someone Who Understands — Free Case Review

At Nisimblat Law, we represent American and Canadian patients like you, who have encountered trouble after seeking medical care in Colombia. We offer a free initial case review, and our experienced team speaks English, ensuring that you’ll be understood throughout this process. With over 27 years of experience and a background in Harvard’s PON program, we’re committed to standing by your side. Remember, you don’t have to figure this out alone. Reach out to us for help.

If you need immediate assistance, you can contact us via WhatsApp at +57 310 485 4137.