We should be able to put our trust in medical professionals. Unfortunately, that trust is far too often betrayed. Successful medical treatment depends on a successful diagnosis. With this in mind, it goes without saying that the effects of misdiagnosis can be devastating. But not all mistakes made by doctors qualify as malpractice. Today, we’ll clarify the circumstances in which misdiagnosis is a form of medical malpractice.
Successful treatment depends on a successful diagnosis. If your misdiagnosis caused quantifiable damages, get in touch with us.
A Proven Injury or Illness
A simple incorrect diagnosis alone will not qualify as medical malpractice. What’s crucial is proving that you do have an injury or illness that went overlooked by a medical professional.
Let’s give an example of what we mean. Suppose that you went to your doctor complaining of chest pains. After reviewing your condition, the doctor determines that you have an inflamed pancreas, and prescribes a course of action accordingly. As it turns out, you only had heartburn.
In the example we’ve given above, you may not have sufficient grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit. This is because the actual source of your symptoms—heartburn—does not always indicate a serious underlying illness. Unless your doctor’s failure to properly diagnose your problem results in demonstrable harm to your physical or psychological health, misdiagnosis does not qualify as medical malpractice. That brings us to our next point!
Quantifiable Damages
In addition to a proven injury or illness, you will need to be able to quantify damages for a successful medical malpractice lawsuit.
It is not hard to see how a misdiagnosis can result in damages. Let’s suppose you had a serious condition that your doctor dismissed as something relatively harmless. This could easily result in your condition worsening as it continues to go unaddressed.
Here are some other forms of damage that commonly result from misdiagnosis:
- Increased medical expenses
- Lost income
- Lost physical function
- Psychological harm
Thankfully, there is an avenue available to help you cover the cost of these damages: a medical malpractice lawsuit. If you’ve experienced misdiagnosis, and your case has both of the elements we’ve described above, give the legal experts at the Snyder Law Group a call.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, for more information and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Call 410-THE-FIRM. Don’t just sue them. SNYDER THEM.