Medical harm: what to do in case of medical accident, nosocomial infection, adverse effect of a drug?

MIL OSI Translation. Region: France and French Territories –

Source: Republic of France in French

Credits: © bukhta79 – Fotolia.com

The results of the pharmaco-epidemiological study conducted by Health Insurance on 250,000 women exposed to cyproterone acetate (Androcur drug and generics) indicate that the risk of tumor (meningioma) can be increased. More generally in the face of medical harm (physical, moral or material damage resulting from a medical or surgical procedure), what can be done? Service-public.fr explains everything.

If you have suffered medical harm, you can:

seize the commission of the users who ensures the respect of the rights of the users and to facilitate their approaches;
refer to the Conciliation and Compensation Commission (CCI) for any medical accident or nosocomial infection in particular;
seize the tribunal administrative (if the acts concerned are related to a public institution) or the district or high court (if the institution concerned depends on the private sector) knowing that it is possible to seize the criminal court in case of misconduct severe (injury or death of the patient);
lead a group action against a health product (medicine, cosmetic product, medical device …) when several people have suffered similar harm, the procedure being then conducted by an association of users of the health system.

In terms of contamination related to a blood transfusion (HIV, hepatitis B …), the claim for compensation goes through the National Office for compensation of medical accidents, iatrogenic diseases and nosocomial infections (Oniam).

If you have been affected by a harm related to a vaccine there is a special compensation procedure for compulsory vaccinations through Oniam.

Finally, there are also specific devices in case of harm related to certain drugs or products (Mediator, Depakine, PIP breast prostheses).

Recall :

Following the taking of a particular medication, you have the opportunity to report on Health reporting any adverse effects on your health (even if these effects are mentioned in the package leaflet or if they are the result of an error on your part).

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and / or sentence structure not be perfect.