Medical Expenses

Medical expenses tend to comprise the largest portion of the recovery in a personal injury lawsuit. This is because the costs of medical care and treatment in the U.S. can be extremely high – even when the injury is minor. An injury that causes a permanent disability may result in millions of dollars in medical bills.

Our goal at Geoff McDonald & Associates is to make sure that you recover funds that will pay for all of your past and future medical needs. We can review your records and consult with experts to arrive at the proper value in your claim.

We have been helping personal injury victims in Richmond and Virginia for more than 20 years to recover the medical expenses they are due. Contact us today to arrange for a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist in your case.

Types of Medical Costs in a Personal Injury Case

Calculating compensation for an accident victim’s medical expenses requires a comprehensive approach. Depending on the nature of the accident or injury and the individual’s medical needs, a personal injury claim may seek reimbursement for expenses such as:

• Emergency room treatment – Doctors’ exams and consultations, diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs and CT scans), lab work, primary medical care, medication and medical supplies (bandages, gloves, hypodermic needles and catheters)
• Hospitalization – Room and board, nursing services, medication, meals and medical supplies
• Surgery – Surgeon’s fee, surgery center’s fee, anesthesiologist’s fee, lab / pathology fees (blood and/or urine tests, charges for tissue sampling and diagnosis, allergy testing and diagnostic testing) and fees for loaned / leased medical equipment
• Doctor examinations and consultations – Follow-up appointments after release from the hospital
• Medication – All prescription and over-the-counter medications
• Rehabilitation – Physical, psychological, occupational and vocational therapy
• Cosmetic/plastic surgery – This may be required if an injury results in scarring or disfigurement
• Personal assistance – In-home nursing or in-home aides
• Assistive devices – Walkers, wheelchairs or hospital beds
• Adaptations – To the injury victim’s home and/or vehicle.

Such costs may be part of a life-care plan, which is a detailed report developed by professional consultants that calculates and presents in detail a patient’s long-term care needs and expenses.