According to the Silicon Valley Mercury News, a military veteran has resolved his medical negligence claim against a Northern California Veterans Administration hospital for $250,000. David W. Woodward Sr. alleged that he became legally blind as the result of negligent care he received at the hospital.

Woodward is one of eight patients who were treated for eye problems at the Palo Alto hospital, only to be informed later that improper care may have caused their loss of vision.

Medical malpractice occurs where a medical professional's inadequate, negligent or reckless conduct causes harm. When doctors, nurses or other hospital staff fail to provide the standard of care required, they may be found negligent and required to compensate patients for their injuries. Here, Woodward was informed by the hospital's chief of staff that his glaucoma may have been prevented if his eye treatment had been overseen and reviewed by an eye care specialist.

Although physicians and other health care professionals cannot guarantee results, when we go to the doctor we expect to be treated adequate care and skill. Here, although the government did not admit responsibility the chief of staff revealed there may have been "improper care."

If you have believe you have been harmed by the wrongful or negligent conduct of a health care professional, contact The Law Offices of Frederick J. Sette, dedicated to helping victims of negligence for more than 15 years.