When a baby is diagnosed with Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy, it can turn what should be a joyful experience into something incredibly difficult. Suddenly, instead of planning for first steps and baby milestones, parents are facing tough medical decisions, long-term care needs, and an overwhelming mix of emotions. The impact on the entire family can be life changing.
For many families, these injuries could have been prevented. When medical mistakes play a role, pursuing legal compensation is often one of the few ways to secure the resources needed to care for the child and move forward. But what does that compensation actually cover? And how do you even begin the process? If you are looking for guidance after an HIE diagnosis, it may be time to speak with someone who understands what you are going through. Contact Latona Law to learn what your legal options might be.
Understanding HIE and Its Impact
When something goes wrong during childbirth and a baby does not get enough oxygen, the results can be life altering. This kind of injury, known as HIE, affects the brain and can have lasting effects depending on how long the oxygen supply was reduced. Some children recover with minimal issues, but others may face serious health challenges.
A child with HIE might need help with walking, talking, or learning. In more severe cases, they may require ongoing therapy, special education, or assistive devices to get through everyday tasks. The medical side is just one part of it. Families often carry a heavy emotional and financial burden as they try to manage care, work, and the uncertainty that comes with a complex diagnosis.
Everyday life can quickly turn into a long list of appointments, therapies, and tough decisions. For parents, the pressure to make the right choices for their child can feel overwhelming. It is not just about healing in the moment but also planning for what their child will need in the years ahead.
If there are signs that a mistake may have been made during delivery, it is worth asking questions. Finding out what happened and whether it could have been prevented can help families take the next steps—both in seeking answers and in finding support for the road ahead.
Why Legal Action Matters
When a family is dealing with HIE, the focus is on the child’s health and immediate care. It’s an emotional time, full of questions, decisions and uncertainty. Litigation may not seem like a priority, but it can make a difference in your child’s future.
In some cases, HIE occurs without warning. But there are situations where medical staff may have missed signs, delayed treatment, or made preventable errors during labor or delivery. If that happened, the injury might have been avoidable. Taking legal action is one way to find out what went wrong and to hold the responsible parties accountable.
A lawsuit can also provide the financial support your family may need. The costs of therapy, equipment, in-home care and other services go on for years. Getting compensation can help take some of that burden off and give you the ability to focus on your child’s growth and well-being.
There are also deadlines to be aware of. In Pennsylvania, you only have a limited amount of time to file a claim. That is why it is important to speak with a lawyer who has experience with birth injury cases. They can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process with care and clarity.
Types of Compensation Available in Pennsylvania HIE Cases
When a child is diagnosed with HIE, families are often faced with overwhelming expenses and long-term care needs. In Pennsylvania, a legal claim can help cover these costs and provide some relief as you focus on your child’s well-being.
Compensation may be available for medical care, including hospital stays, therapy, medications, and any future treatments your child might need. It can also help with daily care, special equipment, and home modifications that make life safer and more manageable.
Parents who have had to reduce work hours or leave a job to care for their child may also be able to recover lost income. In addition to financial losses, families may seek compensation for the emotional impact of the injury, including pain, stress, and the overall changes to your child’s quality of life.
Each situation is different. The amount and type of compensation will depend on the specific details of the case, but the goal is to help families move forward with the support they need.
Learn More by Speaking With an Illinois Birth Injury Attorney
If your child was diagnosed with HIE and you believe something may have gone wrong during birth, you do not have to face this on your own. Understanding your legal rights can be an important step toward getting answers and planning for the future.
At Latona Law, we offer free consultations to help families learn what may have happened and what options are available. We are here to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through the process with care and clarity.