Many individuals feel that they know their bodies best, and even after consulting with a physician or other medical professional, they may feel as if all of their questions have not been answered. This is always true in the case where you suspect that you have been misdiagnosed. Follow these steps for what to do if you think you have been misdiagnosed in order to handle a potential case of misdiagnosis.

How you handle this situation could prove important if you ultimately need to file a medical malpractice case. A doctor has a responsibility to apply the same standard of care to you and all patients who are seen by him or her. Someone who is not paying attention or who is otherwise distracted during the process of giving you a diagnosis may make a mistake.

Get a Second Opinion

Misdiagnosis can be catastrophic and devastating for you, as it might mean that you miss out on essential treatments that could help you recover from your situation. You might also even receive treatments for a condition that you do not have, which can be expensive and time consuming, not to mention frustrating. If you believe that your doctor has given you the wrong diagnosis, it is important to get a second opinion. A second opinion can give you a realistic expectation about whether or not you are overreacting to the other doctor’s claims. It can also give you an idea of the potential benefits of alternative treatments.

Being empowered with enough information to make an educated decision about your own care is essential, and if you suspect that the first doctor has not given you an accurate diagnosis or treatment options, you may wish to consult with someone else. If you ultimately discover through your second opinion that the other doctor has made a mistake, you may have grounds for a medical malpractice misdiagnosis claim. You must be able to demonstrate that you have suffered damage or injuries as a result of this misdiagnosis.

Speak with an Attorney with Experience in Medical Malpractice

Consulting with a knowledgeable Arizona medical malpractice attorney is your next course of action if you believe that this situation describes what you are currently going through. No one wants to become a victim of misdiagnosis, but you are empowered to make decisions affecting your future if this situation applies to you.  There may be a brighter future ahead if you are able to file a medical malpractice claim.          

This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice regarding What to Do If You Think You Have Been Misdiagnosed, or any other personal injury, please feel free to contact Brian T. Allen at  480.461.5335,  log on to udallshumway.com,  or contact an attorney in your area. Udall Shumway PLC is located in Mesa, Arizona and is a full service law firm. We assist Individuals, families, businesses, schools and municipalities in Mesa and the Phoenix/East Valley.