Why December Can Be a Particularly Risky Month for Medical Malpractice

While medical errors can happen at any time, December brings unique challenges that make patients more vulnerable to medical malpractice.

At CHH, our experience handling medical malpractice cases in Chicago has shown us that the holiday season is a time when the likelihood of errors increases. If you or a loved one requires medical care in December, here are some reasons to be extra vigilant.

1. Increased Patient Volume and Hospital Crowding

The holiday season often brings an uptick in hospital visits due to winter illnesses, injuries from accidents, and elective surgeries scheduled before the year’s end. This increase in patient volume can lead to overcrowded emergency rooms, longer wait times, and overwhelmed medical staff. In such high-pressure environments, mistakes can happen. Misdiagnoses, delayed treatments, and medication errors become more common when hospitals are operating beyond capacity.

2. Staff Shortages and Inexperienced Temporary Staff

December is also a popular month for medical staff to take time off for holidays or vacation, leaving hospitals short-staffed. To fill these gaps, healthcare facilities often rely on temporary or less-experienced staff, including nurses, residents, and traveling doctors. These temporary workers may not be as familiar with the hospital’s procedures, leading to communication breakdowns and a higher risk of medical errors. The use of temporary staff, combined with the strain of increased patient volume, creates an environment ripe for mistakes.

3. Surge in Elective Surgeries Before Year-End

Many patients opt to schedule elective surgeries in December to take advantage of their insurance coverage before it resets in the new year. While this can be financially beneficial, it can also lead to rushed medical decisions or overbooked surgical teams. Surgeons and staff may be pressured to fit in more procedures than usual, which can compromise patient care. Errors in pre-operative evaluations, surgical mistakes, or inadequate post-operative care can result in serious harm to patients.

4. Holiday-Related Stress and Fatigue Among Medical Professionals

The holiday season is a time of joy, but it can also bring stress and fatigue, especially for those in demanding fields like healthcare. Medical professionals working longer hours or covering for colleagues who are on holiday leave may experience burnout, which can lead to decreased focus, slower response times, and poor decision-making. Fatigue is one of the leading causes of human error in medicine, and during December, the risk of fatigue-related mistakes is higher than usual.

5. Increased Risk of Communication Failures

Communication is critical in preventing medical errors, but the holiday season can complicate this process. When temporary staff are brought in, regular teams are dispersed, and schedules are erratic, communication breakdowns between doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals become more common. Miscommunication about a patient’s medical history, allergies, or treatment plan can have catastrophic consequences. For example, an improperly communicated medication dosage or missed test result could lead to serious harm or death.

6. Weather-Related Complications and Delays

December in Chicago often means harsh winter weather, which can disrupt medical services and access to care. Snowstorms, icy roads, and frigid temperatures may lead to transportation delays for patients, ambulances, and even medical staff. These delays can prevent patients from receiving timely care in emergencies or during critical post-surgical periods, increasing the risk of complications and errors in treatment.

7. Holiday Distractions in Healthcare Settings

The festive atmosphere during the holidays can lead to distractions in both hospitals and clinics. While it’s important for healthcare workers to enjoy the season, distractions—whether from holiday celebrations, gift exchanges, or personal matters—can cause lapses in focus. Even small distractions can have serious consequences in a healthcare setting, where precision and attention to detail are crucial to patient safety.

Protecting Yourself and Your Loved Ones from Holiday-Season Medical Errors

Although December presents an increased risk for medical malpractice, there are steps patients can take to protect themselves:

• Be proactive about your care: Ask questions, double-check your medical records, and make sure you fully understand your diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Bring an advocate: If you’re undergoing treatment or surgery, bring a family member or friend to serve as an extra set of eyes and ears.
• Stay vigilant: Watch for signs of medical errors, such as delays in treatment, inconsistencies in your care, or unexplained changes in your medication.

Seek Help If You Suspect Medical Malpractice

At CHH, we understand the increased risks that patients face during the holiday season. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to medical negligence in December, don’t wait. The consequences of medical errors can be devastating, but you have the right to seek compensation and hold healthcare providers accountable.

Contact CHH in Chicago today for a free consultation. Our experienced team of medical malpractice attorneys is ready to help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the justice you deserve.

Hospital Negligence + Medical Malpractice