Nephrologist

The Kidney Specialists – Baltimore Nephrologist Lawyer Mark Kopec

Nephrologists are medical doctors who specialize in the care of the kidneys, urinary tract, and related systems. They diagnose and treat a wide range of kidney diseases and conditions, including acute and chronic kidney failure, kidney stones, hypertension, and electrolyte imbalances. Nephrologists also play a role in managing kidney disease in patients with diabetes and other systemic illnesses. However, they can commit medical malpractice. If you have been injured, you may need Baltimore nephrologist lawyer Mark Kopec.

Education and Training

Nephrologists undergo education and training to become experts in their field. They typically complete four years of medical school. Afterward there is a three-year residency in internal medicine. After residency, they then complete a two-year fellowship in nephrology, where they receive training in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases.

Licensing and Board Certification

All nephrologists must be licensed to practice medicine in the state where they work. Licensing requirements vary by state but typically include passing a medical licensing exam and completing a specified number of continuing medical education (CME) hours each year.

Nephrologists may also choose to become board certified in nephrology by passing an examination administered by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).

Types of Patients

Nephrologists see patients of all ages, from infants to the older. They often work with patients who have been referred by other doctors, such as primary care doctors, cardiologists, or endocrinologists. Nephrologists also see patients who are self-referred or who have been referred by a specialist in another field.

Types of Medical Conditions – Baltimore Nephrologist Lawyer Mark Kopec

Nephrologists diagnose and treat a wide range of kidney diseases and conditions, including:

• Acute kidney injury (AKI)
• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Kidney stones
• Glomerulonephritis
• Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
• Diabetic kidney disease
• Hypertension
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Acid-base disorders
• Kidney cancer

Diagnostic Tests

Nephrologists use a variety of tests to diagnose kidney diseases and conditions, including:

• Blood tests, such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and electrolytes
• Urinalysis
• Urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR)
• Kidney biopsy
• Ultrasound
• CT Scan
• MRI

Treatments

Nephrologists offer a variety of treatments for kidney diseases and conditions, including:

• Medications to control blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and also prevent kidney damage
• Dialysis, a procedure that filters waste products from the blood when the kidneys are no longer functioning properly
• Kidney transplantation
• Lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to manage kidney disease
• Procedures to remove kidney stones

Baltimore nephrologist lawyer Mark Kopec can review the treatment you received and then assess a possible medical malpractice claim.

Where They Work

Nephrologists typically work in hospitals, clinics, and also private practices. They may also work in academic settings, such as medical schools and research institutions.

Medical Providers

Nephrologists often work with other medical providers, such as:

• Primary care physicians
• Cardiologists
• Endocrinologists
• Surgeons
• Radiologists
• Pathologists
• Dietitians
• Social workers

Medical Malpractice Claims with Baltimore Nephrologist Lawyer Mark Kopec

Nephrologists, like other medical professionals, can be held liable for medical malpractice if they fail to provide the standard of care and their negligence results in harm to a patient. Some common types of medical malpractice claims against nephrologists include:

• Failure to diagnose a kidney disease
• Delayed diagnosis of a kidney disease
• Misdiagnosis of a kidney disease
• Failure to order appropriate tests
• Failure to interpret test results correctly
• Prescribing inappropriate medications
• Surgical error and performing unnecessary procedures
• Failing to provide adequate follow-up care

Next Step: Call Baltimore Nephrologist Lawyer Mark Kopec

If you believe you or a loved one has been harmed by the negligence of a nephrologist, it is important to consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney. We can review your case, determine if you have a valid claim, and help you pursue compensation for your injuries.

Visit the Kopec Law Firm free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.