Urgent care clinics are everywhere in Portland helping thousands of patients every week. These centers include Legacy GoHealth, ZoomCare and other fast-access clinics that promise quick treatment. Many people trust these clinics because not only are they convenient, but they also offer good services. Unfortunately, serious mistakes can still happen in these places. So, when your visit takes a wrong turn, do you hold clear rights under Oregon law?
Yes, you can sue an urgent care clinic in Oregon
Oregon treats every licensed urgent care center the same as a hospital Emergency Room (ER) under ORS 677.095 and related statutes. This means that every doctor, nurse practitioner and staff member must meet the accepted standard of care during every stage of your visit. Note that this applies whether they are working in a hospital or in their center. If the harm stemmed from a breach of the standard of care, you have a valid malpractice claim.
A claim will allow you to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and future care needs. Families can also bring wrongful death claims in tragic cases. These claims enable patients to rebuild and recover while holding providers accountable.
Here are some signs your urgent care visit may support a claim. Use this list as a quick check before you take your next step:
- A rushed exam that missed a clear warning sign
- A wrong diagnosis that delayed vital treatment
- Medication errors that made your condition worse
- Improper treatment due to minimized symptoms
- Unrequested lab tests or scans due to ‘medical gaslighting’
Many people delay action because they feel unsure about their rights. But a comprehensive review of your records can clear that confusion and show you where the clinic made mistakes.
Do not wait until it is too late
Oregon gives you two years from when you discovered the injury to file a claim, with a five-year limit from the date of treatment. Many people lose their claims because they wait too long, so gather your records now and write down every detail you remember. An attorney experienced in medical malpractice cases can guide you through that process and protect your claim. Remember, healthcare professionals swore to protect patients. You should not have to suffer for their negligence.