When you see a medical professional for help, you expect to receive a diagnosis that is accurate and complete. Unfortunately, thousands of patients are misdiagnosed each year, as reported by the National Center for Policy Analysis. The consequences can prove devastating for these patients and their families. When physicians fail to provide an accurate diagnosis, the Baltimore, Maryland and Washington DC medical malpractice attorneys of Schochor, Staton, Goldberg, and Cardea, P.A. work to secure compensation for the resulting injuries.
The Effects of a Misdiagnosis
Proper diagnosis is extremely important. It can mean the difference between a complete recovery and death. Some effects of misdiagnosis include:
- Continuation of painful symptoms due to non-treatment
- Painful side effects from improper medication administration
- Further advancement of the untreated condition
- Elevated blood pressure from continuous pain and stress
- Unnecessary surgeries
- Development of other medical complications
- Death
Strategies for Prevention
The attorneys of Schochor, Staton, Goldberg, and Cardea, P.A. seek to empower the residents of Baltimore, Washington DC and Maryland with tools to minimize the possibility of misdiagnosis. The following are strategies you can employ to protect yourself and promote your medical wellbeing:
- Document your symptoms. Take a moment to write down your symptoms as they occur. Simply making a quick note on a calendar helps provide an accurate view of what is happening and when. This also helps you better communicate your symptoms to your physician, instead of relying on your memory.
- Be honest with your physician. To make an accurate diagnosis, your doctor needs to know exactly what you are experiencing. It is important to be completely honest about your symptoms. No matter how embarrassing or troublesome, communicate openly with your physician and provide all applicable information. Even if you do not understand the relevance, your doctor may recognize a connection that saves your life.
- Provide an accurate medical history. Make every effort to provide your physician with a comprehensive view of your medical history, including any surgical procedures, illnesses and medications you take.
- Ask questions and follow up. Do not be afraid to ask your doctor questions. Seek clarification about what information is needed for diagnosis. Ask if future appointments are necessary or if a specialist is required for your condition. You should also inquire about possible symptoms that suggest a more serious condition.
Holding Baltimore, Washington DC, and Maryland physicians accountable for misdiagnosis
If you or a loved one was injured by a medical misdiagnosis, put 30 years of successful medical malpractice advocacy to work in your case. With offices in Washington D.C. and Baltimore, the attorneys of Schochor, Staton, Goldberg, and Cardea, P.A. proudly provide comprehensive legal services to the community. Contact the office at 410-234-1000 for a consultation.