In order to show that the diagnostic error was medical malpractice, a plaintiff must prove that medical negligence on the part of the healthcare professional was the reason for the misdiagnosis. A healthcare professional can be held medically negligent when they provide a service to a patient that is inferior to those of a reasonable professional in the same field. Some frequently seen examples of medical negligence include misconstruing test results, or neglecting to screen a patient for a condition for which they are high-risk.
Additionally, to support a claim of medical malpractice, a plaintiff must show that the misdiagnosis contributed directly to the progression of the illness or injury, and that he or she suffered monetary damages because of the injury or illness. It is also imperative that you follow up with your practitioner if your condition does not improve as they predicted.
If these criteria can be met, a plaintiff could possibly recover damages for loss of earnings, pain and suffering, medical expenses, and potentially, punitive damages.
Types of Diagnostic Errors
- An Incorrect Diagnosis can be the result of an inadequate medical evaluation. A doctor may make a diagnosis based on hasty conclusions, subsequently prescribing extraneous medications, and leaving the true medical condition untreated.
- A Misdiagnosis takes place when a secondary condition goes undiscovered and as a result, an erroneous medication is prescribed. Therefore leaving the secondary ailment untreated, which leads to an additional decline in the patient’s health.
- A Delayed Diagnosis results when an inadequate analysis leaves a malady overlooked. This can lead to a worsening of the ailment, necessitating a more involved treatment when the condition is finally diagnosed, or wrongful death.
Medical diagnostic errors account for one-third of all medical malpractice claims in North Miami Beach and across Florida. If you believe that a medical diagnostic error is to blame for your loss and suffering, contact an experienced Miami medical malpractice attorney today to discuss your case. Don’t hesitate because Florida has strict limitations on the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit, and medical malpractice cases require extensive investigation and preparation.
According to a Time online publication, diagnostic errors are the most prevalent kind of medical mistake, eclipsing pharmaceutical overdoses and surgical errors. Medical misdiagnosis can have catastrophic repercussions for a patient. In terms of diagnosing a medical condition, timing is crucial. The more promptly your malady can be diagnosed, the better your chances of successful treatment and recovery. As unfortunate as a medical diagnostic error can be, the error alone is not always enough to support a medical malpractice lawsuit. Contact Misdiagnosis And Delayed Diagnosis Injury Attorney today.
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(954) 365-0000