Is Your Doctor Doing You Favors By Prescribing Antibiotics?

Posted on Monday, May 9th, 2016 at 4:15 am    

In 2013, USA Today ran a story about a study that showed antibiotics were being overused. At that time, doctors in the United States were prescribing enough antibiotics to give them to four out of five American each year. Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) conducted a study analyzed a national prescriptions database for 2010 and found that doctors prescribed 258 million courses of antibiotics.

In 2010, doctors wrote an average of approximately 833 prescriptions for every 1,000 people. However, in Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia, the average was higher with 1,200 prescriptions for every 1,000 people. California, Alaska, and Oregon was much lower with only 600 prescriptions for every 1,000 people.  According to Dr. Lauri Hicks of the CDC, “some of the prescribing may not be warranted.”

The Antibiotics Problem Continues

new study shows that the problem with over-prescribing antibiotics continues. According to a new study by the CDC, thirty percent of antibiotics prescribed to patients are not needed and the CDC is warning doctors to cut back on unnecessary prescriptions. As with the previous study, many of the antibiotics prescribed are for bronchitis, respiratory infections, middle-ear infections, and the flu. However, nearly half of these prescriptions are unnecessary because the conditions are caused by a virus and antibiotics are only effective to treat a bacterial infection.

Conditions that may warrant a prescription for an antibiotic include:

  • Strep throat
  • An ear infection accompanied by a fever of 102.2 or higher, pain that last for more than two days, a bulging ear drum, and/or the presence of puss
  • Extended sinus infection lasting for 10 or more days
  • Bacterial pneumonia
  • Bronchitis accompanied by pneumonia
  • All bacterial infections

One way you can protect yourself is to be an informed patient. Before accepting a prescription for an antibiotic, ask your doctor why he feels an antibiotic is needed and if a test could reveal whether the condition is bacterial or viral. If you believe your doctor is overprescribing antibiotics, seek a second opinion.

The Rise of Superbugs

One of the most serious issues with overprescribing antibiotics is the rise of superbugs. Superbugs are dangerous infections that are resistant to antibiotics. One source estimates that 2.25 million people are sickened each year by the misuse or overuse of antibiotics and 37,000 people are killed. The World Health Organization and the European Union claim the rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria is one of the world’s most serious heath crises.

Have You Been Harmed By A Medical Professional?

Medical malpractice is a complex legal area. While every bad result does not equal medical malpractice, there are some instances where a medical provider is at fault for harm to a patient. If you believe you or a family member has been the victim of medical malpractice, contact the Tiemann Law Firm for a free consultation by calling (916) 999-9000 or chat with a representative on our website.

Client Testimonials

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
Quote

I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.

Dawniel Ewing Testimonial
Quote

I have nothing but great things to say about this firm. They have been extremely helpful and professional when dealing with my case. Anytime I needed anything or wanted to be updated they responded immediately. They made me feel like they cared. Highly recommend them!

Michael T. Testimonial
Quote

I sat down and met with Jelena Tiemann about my vehicle accident.I presented all of my documentation to her in which she gave me her assessment.Although the Tiemann Law Firm wont be representing me because my settlement offer was pretty good she was very clear,forward and professional about what she felt could and couldn't be done.I recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a helping hand at fighting a case where you don't have to worry about the outcome not going in your favor. Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees.

Herb T. Testimonial
Quote

The Tiemanns were referred to me by a friend and I am exceptionally happy with the service I received. I had never been in an accident before. I had no idea what to do. Jelena verbally explained how everything would work to me, and she and Peter handled everything. I didn't have to lift a finger once. They went above and beyond for me and I am extremely grateful. I pray I won't ever need this type of assistance again, but I will definitely be referring them to friends and family.

Jennifer T. Testimonial
Quote

I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
Quote

From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

S.B. Testimonial
Quote

Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

Star Fire Testimonial
Quote

It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Jereme S. Testimonial
Quote

No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Maye Ly Testimonial
Quote

I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

Matt H. Testimonial
Quote

I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
Quote

Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Lendzey Garcia
Quote

I was in a very bad/ major car accident I originally had an attorney who wasn’t trying to help me out much or take any of my calls so I called Tiemann and told them my situation. They made it an AWESOME and Smooth transition over to them and took on both cases I had. I just settled on my big case and am beyond great full. For them and their team! I highly recommend them. To add on to this a little On how much they will work with you, I moved to Montana in the middle of all Of this and it was not an issue!