When is Misdiagnosis Considered Medical Malpractice in Florida?

In the 1930s, nearly one in five fatal illnesses was misdiagnosed. Today, we have advanced technology to help us diagnose disease. Doctors can use blood tests, CT scans, MRIs and other tests to screen for many fatal diseases. But today, the rate of misdiagnosis of fatal illnesses is still one in five.

How do you know if you are the victim of medical misdiagnosis? These signs may indicate a medical misdiagnosis:

• You don't get better with treatment. Your doctor changes the treatment, and you still don't get better.
• The diagnosis doesn't match your symptoms. If you are diagnosed with an illness, it is always a good idea to research your diagnosis on the internet. If your symptoms don't match the information that you find, talk to your doctor or get a second opinion.
• The doctor based your diagnosis on a lab test. Labs often make mistakes. If you test positive for a serious illness, ask for the test to be repeated. Know which tests you are taking, and question the doctor if the diagnosis is based on a test you didn't take.
• Your doctor diagnoses you with a rare illness. Sometimes symptoms are actually due to common causes. Get a second opinion.

Any time you have a question about your diagnosis or symptoms, you should discuss them with your doctor. If you feel that your doctor isn't addressing your concerns, it may be wise to get a second opinion.

How do you know if your misdiagnosis is medical malpractice?

In order to file a Florida medical malpractice claim, you must be able to show that the misdiagnosis caused you harm in some way. Did you receive treatments that caused harm, or did a misdiagnosis cause you to miss potentially life-saving treatment? These are examples of ways that medical misdiagnosis can cause serious injury.

You must also be able to show that the misdiagnosis occurred because the doctor or nurse was negligent or did not provide the accepted standard of medical care. A West Palm Beach medical malpractice attorney can help you determine if you have a Florida medical malpractice case.

Were you misdiagnosed in Florida? Contact the Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb at 800-GOLD-LAW to schedule a free legal consultation with a West Palm Beach medical malpractice attorney.