Reducing the Risk of Misdiagnosis & Delayed Diagnosis

Did you know that misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis are the most common types of medical malpractice claims? 

According to a recent study, diagnostic errors account for nearly 34% of all medical malpractice cases and are responsible for approximately 40,000 – 80,000 deaths annually, just in the U.S.. Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis typically occur when a healthcare provider fails to diagnose a condition accurately or in a timely manner, leading to harm or worsening of the patient’s current condition. In order to safeguard your health as well as minimize the risk of encountering this type of medical malpractice, it’s important to take proactive measures to ensure a correct and timely diagnosis. Here are some precautions you can take in order to protect yourself and prioritize your well-being.

Tips to Minimize Risk to Misdiagnosis & Delayed Diagnosis

1. Communicate clearly and effectively: 

• Clearly describe all symptoms, including their onset, duration, and triggers.

• Share your entire medical history, including any chronic conditions, medications, allergies, as well as family medical history.

1. Ask Multiple Questions:

• If a diagnosis is unclear, ask about alternative possibilities before making any decisions.

• Request an explanation of diagnostic tests and their purpose in full detail.

1. Seek a Second Opinion: 

• If uncertain about a certain diagnosis, consult a different healthcare provider for confirmation, especially for more serious or complex conditions.

1. Schedule Follow Up Appointments:

• If symptoms persist or worsen, schedule follow-up appointments promptly.

• Ensure you are monitoring your condition throughout and report all the changes to your doctor.

1. Be Proactive About Preventive Care:

• Attend regular checkups and screenings based on your age, gender, and risk factors to catch conditions or symptoms early on.

Although we believe that taking these preventive measures can significantly reduce your risk, you or your loved ones may still face the unfortunate reality of a medical malpractice case. If that happens, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced attorneys at Ball Eggleston. We are here to guide you through the complexities of your case, fight for your rights, and ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve!