Study says Medical Misdiagnosis and Malpractice is too Common

Everyone makes mistakes. The key is, do we admit them, and learn from them? Or do we cover them up?

Often, when a person makes a mistake he or she is unwilling to admit it, fearing embarrassment or ridicule.

When a physician makes a mistake, or a misdiagnosis, failure to admit it inevitably leads to a progressive series of more mistakes and cover-ups, and the patient ends up suffering additional harm in the process.

A new study says that medical misdiagnosis cases are so common that almost everyone will experience at least one in their lifetime.

Medical Misdiagnosis and Malpractice

A large number of medical malpractice lawsuits stem from the misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of a medical condition, illness, or injury. When a doctor’s diagnosis error leads to incorrect treatment, delayed treatment, or no treatment at all, a patient’s condition can be made much worse, and they may even die.

A report from the National Academy of Science reports least 5% of US adults in outpatient care each year are victims of a diagnostic error, with 6% to 17% of “adverse events” in hospitals and 10% of patient deaths occurring due to these mistakes, per medical and postmortem records. The solution, according to the report, includes embracing more communication with pathologists and radiologists, better harnessing of technology, and bringing back autopsies. There should also be more transparency and encouragement of disclosure, the report notes, so doctors won’t be hesitant to reveal errors because they’re afraid of malpractice suits.

Taking control of your healthcare

Patients today must get involved in their healthcare and be informed. The internet can be helpful when it comes to gaining information about medical conditions, but your computer can’t ask you to stick out your tongue and say ahhh. Spend time speaking with your doctor, and ask questions. Get a second opinion, and if a test result comes back with results you don’t like then ask for a re-test. If your insurance company doesn’t pay, call them and ask them to re-consider. If you can afford it, pay yourself. It’s your health.

Taking control of your rights

When a misdiagnosis does occur and someone suffers injury, pain, or even death because of it, there is help. Fortunately we have a legal system that will investigate these cases and determine who, if anyone is at fault. There are provisions for victims to be compensated.

MalpracticeAttorneys.com is the leading online source for victims of malpractice to get information and referrals. The first step is to click here and register. We will then search for the most qualified attorney in your area and have them contact you for a free and confidential consultation. Our service is 100% free to victims.