Florida hospitals have among the highest cesarean section rates for low-risk pregnancies for first-time mothers in the nation. Consumer Reports analyzed C-section data reported by more than 1200 hospitals across the country. They found C-section rates varied significantly among institutions and within the same communities. Low-risk pregnancies are defined as those in which the baby is not breach and has undergone a gestation period of 37 weeks or more.
Florida had an average C-section rate of 32 percent for low-risk pregnancies in 2014. Miami area hospitals were even more likely to perform the procedure. Hialeah Hospital had the highest C-section rate of all hospitals in the study at 68 percent. South Miami Hospital also had a high rate of 53 percent.
According to the Department of Health and Human Resources, the target national C-section rate is under 23.9 percent for first-time pregnancies with low risk. However, many hospitals cross that number. Experts say there are various reasons for high C-section rates in Florida such as patient preference, cultural inclination or doctors practicing defensive medicine.
At times surgical delivery is essential for the mother and baby’s safety. For example, an emergency C-section may be necessary if the placenta blocks the cervix or if the fetus is in the wrong position. In addition, mothers who have gestational diabetes or high blood pressure may require the procedure.
However, medically unnecessary C-sections can give rise to a number of dangers such as fetal distress and breathing problems for the baby. Researchers estimate that nearly half of the nation’s C-sections are performed despite the possibility of a safe vaginal delivery in a low-risk pregnancy.
It is important to note that determining fault can be more complicated than it might seem. If you or your child was injured and you believe someone else is fully or partially to blame, contact Chalik & Chalik to learn more about your rights.
The Possible Long-Term Prognosis of Erb’s Palsy in Florida The long-term effects of Erb’s palsy depend on the severity of the underlying nerve injury and the use of skilled medical intervention. Some patients will experience no permanent effects, while others face a lifetime of physical limitations. Parents may choose to pursue a birth injury claim in cases where a doctor’s negligence caused Erb’s palsy....
C-section rate of United States exceeds global average The United States has a high caesarean-section rate of 32.5 percent in comparison to the average of 28 percent among developed nations. The high rate has been controversial as the surgical procedure is not always medically necessary. While C-sections may be performed due to a woman’s personal preference, in some cases they are required for...
Study warns not to underestimate birth injury risk for second-time mothers Researchers have claimed doctors should not assume that a mother who has previously undergone a vaginal delivery is exempt from the risk of her subsequent babies sustaining brachial plexus birth injuries. A recent study analyzed all brachial plexus birth injuries that occurred between October 2003 and March 2013 at an academic medical institution. There were...
Simulation manikins gain popularity as medical training tool Simulation using manikins is becoming an integral part of medical training around the country to help improve the quality of care for patients. Research indicates that simulated learning environments contribute to preparing medical staff for emergencies, enhance their skills and allow them to practice rarely used procedures. In addition, simulator training is credited with reducing...
What are Some Common Birth Injuries Associated with C-Sections? Some common birth injuries associated with C-sections include: Facial or body cuts Fractures Spinal cord injuries In addition to these common C-section birth injuries, other risks are present if the anesthesiologist did not administer the drug properly during a C-section delivery procedure. These potential injuries include low blood pressure, blood clots, and internal bleeding. There...
What You Should Know About Filing A Birth Injury Lawsuit? If your child has suffered a birth injury due to the negligence of doctors or medical staff, you may be considering taking legal action to pursue fair compensation for medical expenses. Birth injuries can have a lasting impact on your child’s life and will likely require constant medical care. There are a number of important...
Is Erb’s Palsy Curable? There is no one single cure for Erb’s palsy. The likelihood of recovery depends on the severity of the underlying injury. Proper medical and therapeutic care may remedy the effects of the injury or lessen the long-term impact. Unfortunately, the effects may be permanent in the most severe cases of nerve damage. Common Erb’s Palsy...
What Can I Expect in the First Year of Erb’s Palsy? A new parent with a child diagnosed with a brachial plexus injury often wants to know, “What can I expect in the first year of Erb’s palsy?” The answer depends on the severity of the underlying nerve injury. Mild injuries may “self-resolve” with the passage of time and the use of physical therapy. More serious...