What leads to a Misdiagnosis Claims?
Patients trust medical professionals to thoroughly investigate, interpret results accurately, and provide the correct diagnosis, leading to appropriate treatment. Unfortunately, mistakes can occur, resulting in incorrect treatment pathways.
A misdiagnosis can be made by any clinician in any setting, whether a GP, doctor, surgeon, or other medical professional. This can lead to delays in receiving the correct treatment, exacerbating the condition and causing irreversible injury.
Examples of misdiagnosis
Misdiagnosis claims span all areas of medicine, and while the list of examples is extensive, here are a few recent cases we have handled:
- Misdiagnosis of cauda equina syndrome: Led to permanent bowel and bladder dysfunction due to delayed surgical intervention caused by the failure to identify red flags upon presentation.
- Delay in diagnosis and treatment of a fracture: Resulted in extensive surgery and ongoing disability.
- Misdiagnosis following invasive cardiology testing: Led to unnecessary open-heart surgery.
- Delay in diagnosis and treatment of bowel cancer: Tragically resulted in death.
- Misdiagnosis of a muscle tear as a DVT: Resulted in compartment syndrome.
- Failure to refer a patient to a gynecologist: Despite being advised by the radiologist who performed a scan.
- Failure to identify signs of heart disease: Led to false reassurances and delays in treatment.
These are just a few examples of the types of cases we have dealt with, and they are certainly not exhaustive. Failure to properly interpret tests, conduct thorough examinations considering the clinical picture and history, and refer to the correct specialist can all lead to delays in treating the actual condition. In some cases, it may even result in harmful treatment for a condition that is not present.
If you believe your condition has been misdiagnosed or treatment delayed due to negligence, our team is experienced in helping you with your misdiagnosis claim. We are here to provide the support and expertise you need to seek compensation and ensure your case is handled with the utmost care.
