When you visit the doctor or hospital with troubling symptoms, you expect a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. But what if, instead, you receive the wrong diagnosis, leading you down a path of uncertainty and potentially catastrophic consequences?
Unfortunately, recent research suggests diagnostic errors are a significant public health threat in America. Many errors are minor, but some can be life-altering and even life-threatening.
Professional duty in diagnosing
Health care professionals, hospitals and other facilities are responsible for making the most accurate diagnosis as possible. That can translate into taking all reasonable steps necessary to arrive at the correct diagnosis.
Physicians are ethically obliged to conduct thorough diagnostic procedures in search of the likeliest cause of patient symptoms and health decline. Hospitals share this obligation by providing up-to-date diagnostic equipment and qualified, caring healthcare professionals.
When they breach their duty
The consequences of misdiagnosis can be severe and far-reaching, whether you received an inaccurate or delayed diagnosis.
Even catastrophic harm is possible, including the loss of a limb due to a misdiagnosed vascular condition or infection. Misdiagnosis also endangers cancer patients and could lead to an untimely death.
On top of this, your original condition will be left untreated. If it is severe, delayed treatment can worsen your condition, posing additional injury and illness risks.
The toll? Health and life
According to the study, diagnostic errors account for about 371,000 deaths and 424,000 permanent disabilities each year. Those numbers are much too high to disregard.
The takeaway? Always research Florida hospitals and medical providers carefully before obtaining treatment, when possible. Learn about medical malpractice from a knowledgeable source to help you determine your next steps after a negligent hospital injury or illness.
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