Key takeaways: In the United States, medical treatment for mesothelioma costs over $20,000 per hospitalization. Taking into account a patient’s prognosis, treatment options, and familial support, they should begin the legal process as soon as possible. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations prevents mesothelioma victims from taking legal action any time after two years of diagnosis; this makes beginning the legal process even more urgent. Families filing a claim on behalf of a mesothelioma victim also need to adhere to the statute of limitations.
Does Litigation Happen During Treatment?
Based on the time of diagnosis, the more general prognosis, and the stage of the mesothelioma, you might want to think about starting the legal process as soon as possible. Given expensive medical expenditures, any monetary justice might be helpful in offsetting these expenses. A review study published in 2014 compiled data from hospital discharges and public litigations/settlements to estimate the cost of mesothelioma treatment. They found that the median cost of care, per patient, hovered around $24,000; importantly, this median only took into account one hospitalization. (In 2014, the researchers estimated that Americans spent over $44,000,000 on medical care for mesothelioma.) It’s fair to assume–taking into account inflation, rising costs of medical care, and pandemic-exacerbated hospital staffing issues–these costs have risen substantially since the initial study. Securing monetary justice can take many forms: there are over $30 billion available in trust funds, a relative ease of access to settlements, and the opportunity to engage in a formal trial. Patients have a multitude of options while in treatment. In addition, our attorneys work with you to devise a feasible plan; we care about your well-being, your family, and your goals.
What are Pennsylvania-Specific Guidelines?
Mesothelioma claims, like all civil cases, are bound by government-set restrictions on timelines. These restrictions are formally known as the “statute of limitations,” and are intended to prevent fraudulent or incorrect claims from reaching fruition. In Pennsylvania, Title 42 prohibits one diagnosed with mesothelioma from taking action two years after diagnosis. In addition to offsetting medical costs, taking legal action as soon as possible also ensures that the statute of limitations won’t interfere with the process.
How is Family Impacted?
The statute of limitations also applies to family members of a mesothelioma victim: if they want to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim, they must do so within the established two year period. Families might file a claim to pay outstanding medical debts, fees associated with treatment, or costs of transportation and/or end-of-life care. Whether you’re filing on behalf of yourself or a family member, it’s critical to a.) assemble the documents ensuring a diagnosis, b.) begin the process as soon as possible, and c.) work with our attorneys to help solidify your needs and goals.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, please call The Halpern Law Firm at 1 (800)-505-6000. We are here to help you navigate the legal process of filing a claim to receive compensation for your cancer diagnosis. We help mesothelioma victims and their families in Pennsylvania.
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Written By Carina Filemyr
