3 Myths about Misdiagnoses Dispelled

Physicians are generally trusted to provide the appropriate care for various types of injuries, diseases and other ailments. Unfortunately, however, problems can arise in the diagnostic process, complicating the delivery of proper care to ailing patients – and potentially putting them in harm’s way.

Revealing the prevalence and impacts of wrong diagnoses, below, we have debunked some common misconceptions of misdiagnoses.

The Facts about Misdiagnoses

1. Myth: Wrong diagnoses rarely happen – Not true! Studies conducted on misdiagnoses in the U.S. have reported finding that at least 1 in every 20 Americans will receive a wrong diagnosis at some point during their lifetime. Additionally, researchers have noted that these estimates are likely low, as many cases of misdiagnoses go unreported or undetected.

   Takeaway – Don’t blindly accept a diagnosis from a doctor, especially if you are experiencing symptoms that don’t fit the diagnosis. Ask questions and get a second opinion, if necessary.

2. Myth: There is no way to prove misdiagnoses. – This is also just plain wrong. Although it can be challenging, in some cases, to establish when a misdiagnosis has happened, there are various ways to prove when doctors have diagnosed patients with the wrong conditions. Just some of the evidence that can establish the occurrence of a misdiagnosis can include (but is by no means exclusive to) medical reports, test results, and opinions from other doctors/medical experts.

   Takeaway – If you suspect that you have been misdiagnosed, contact an experienced medical malpractice lawyer ASAP to discuss your options for justice. An attorney can provide further insight into your best options for proceeding.

3. Myth: Wrong diagnoses are not that harmful. – This is also not necessarily true, especially if the underlying condition that has not been properly diagnosed has the potential to be terminal (as in the case of cancer). When serious medical issues are misdiagnosed, it can take that much longer for patients to receive the proper treatments, and this delay can result in a worse prognosis for these people.

   Takeaway – Holding negligent medical professionals accountable for the harm caused by their misdiagnoses can be the key to putting injured patients on the path to justice and recovery.

Contact a Mount Vernon Medical Malpractice Lawyer at the Law Firm of Hassakis & Hassakis, P.C.

If you or a loved one has been misdiagnosed or subjected to any type of medical negligence, a Mount Vernon medical malpractice lawyer at the Law Firm of Hassakis & Hassakis, P.C. is ready to stand up for your rights and help you hold the negligent medical professionals accountable. Since 1950, our trusted attorneys have been focused on serving our clients, helping them maximize their financial recoveries so they can focus on moving on with their life.

To learn more about your best legal options and how we can help you, contact us by calling (888) 896-9381 or by emailing us using the form at the upper right-hand side of the page. We can provide you with a free, thorough assessment of your case, along with professional advice regarding the best manner in which to move forward.