When it comes to your health, you may be experiencing more fear than usual these days. This is understandable when there is so much uncertainty and contradictory information about health issues. This might make for compelling TV viewing, but when you visit your doctor, you want answers and assurances.
Unfortunately, not everyone finds the answers they are seeking, even when they trust their health to trained medical professionals. In fact, one recent study reveals that, when it comes to certain serious medical conditions, you may be among the many for whom a misdiagnosis leads to tragedy.
Life-changing consequences
If you are suffering from a vascular disease, cancer or an infection, you have an almost 10% chance of misdiagnosis. These three medical conditions are the ones that doctors most frequently get wrong, and it often leads to catastrophic consequences. In fact, over half of those who receive wrong diagnoses for one of these “Big Three” conditions end up suffering with long-term injuries or succumbing to their illnesses.
When a physician orders the wrong tests, misreads a lab report or overlooks a symptom, he or she may miss important information that could mean the difference between life and death. For example, an untreated infection may permanently damage tissues and organs. A delay in diagnosing cancer may allow the disease to continue to spread, perhaps irreparably. A missed diagnosis for a vascular issue may result in a stroke, heart attack or ruptured aneurysm.
How can this happen?
The medical community claims there is not enough research to improve techniques for diagnosing vascular illnesses, certain cancers and infections. However, it is also true that the process of diagnosing an illness can easily break down within the first moments you enter the doctor’s office. An incomplete medical history, a doctor who rushes through an exam or dismisses your concerns, a hospital or lab that neglects to upgrade its equipment may be just a few of the factors that can lead to a wrong diagnosis.
If you have suffered permanent injury or lost a loved one after receiving a delayed or incorrect diagnosis, you are probably dealing with many emotions, such as anger and confusion. You may also be dealing with medical bills, lost work, funeral expenses and additional burdens. You may find peace of mind and answers to your questions by reaching out to a West Virginia attorney with experience in medical malpractice claims.