Misdiagnosis is a leading cause of serious medical errors, according to several studies. Patients who are misdiagnosed often have to undergo additional testing and treatment, which can be costly and dangerous. In some cases, misdiagnosis can even lead to death.
Misdiagnosis is a Common Medical Error Leading to Serious Injuries
There are several reasons why misdiagnosis is so common. One reason is that symptoms of different diseases can be very similar. For example, the flu and pneumonia share many of the same symptoms, so it can be difficult to distinguish between them without testing.
Another reason is that doctors sometimes rely too heavily on tests and imaging results instead of listening to their patients’ symptoms and taking a thorough medical history.
If you think you may have been misdiagnosed, it’s important to seek a second opinion from another doctor. You may also want to get a copy of your medical records and test results so that you can review them yourself or have someone else review them.
Of course, not all cases of misdiagnosis are due to medical error. Sometimes, patients’ symptoms do not fit neatly into a single diagnosis, and more than one condition may be at play. However, if you feel like something is wrong and your doctor is not taking your concerns seriously, it’s important to speak up and advocate for yourself. Your health is worth it.
We’re Here to Help Injured Victims
If you have been harmed as a result of an error by a medical professional, you may be owed compensation for your losses. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our skilled team right away to learn more about how we can help you.
Call Dempsey Kingsland Osteen today at (816) 484-3776 for a free consultation regarding your case.