What Happens if a Misdiagnosis Causes Injuries?

Sep 14,2017

A misdiagnosis of a medical condition can result in serious consequences. According to the National Center for Policy Analysis, 10-20% of medical cases are misdiagnosed. The problem with that, of course, is that a misdiagnosis can lead to a patient not receiving the appropriate medical care, and suffering additional injuries or illness.

What Kinds of Injuries Result from Misdiagnosis?

Sadly, in some cases, a misdiagnosis can result in decreased life expectancy. Failing to diagnose cancer early enough is one example of this. Even a small delay in diagnosing and treating cancer can decrease a patient’s chance of survival. Late diagnoses can also necessitate more invasive or aggressive treatments, which otherwise might not have been necessary. Patients can seek compensation for these losses.

Misdiagnosis by a radiologist or pathologist can also lead to unnecessary harm. If a doctor receives inaccurate information about a patient’s condition, which leads to improper medical care, the patient can also seek compensation for those damages.

It is also important to remember that medical professionals are legally required to meet a standard of care. If a doctor or other medical provider fails to meet the standard of care, you might have a case against them.

If you have been injured due to misdiagnosis, the first thing you should do is seek appropriate medical care. You should then discuss your case with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

“Injuries caused by misdiagnosis are especially tragic because they are preventable,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today at (760) 777-7777 for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.