A Delay in Medical Treatment May Cause Harm

When we visit the doctor or hospital we trust that we will get the best care possible. Often, we may be experiencing severe pain or other serious symptoms. Immediate diagnosis is necessary to ensure that the condition is handled quickly and properly. However, sometimes misdiagnosis, or the failure to make a diagnosis, can cause the condition to worsen. A delay in medical treatment may cause harm, and may even contribute to a patient’s death.

Failure to Make a Timely Diagnosis

The doctor or medical team is responsible for examining the patient, ordering tests, and making a diagnosis. In some cases, the doctor may take a long time to make the correct diagnosis. This causes a delay in treatment, which could have serious consequences. For example, a patient with a heart condition could suffer an attack because they failed to get proper treatment.

Improper Diagnosis Can Lead to Injuries

In some instances, the doctor makes an error in diagnosis. This means that the patient is being treated for a condition which he does not have. At the same time, he is not receiving adequate care for the medical problem that he has. This can be very problematic because the patient could suffer injuries from the incorrect treatment and his condition could worsen due to lack of proper care.

Insufficient Care Delays Proper Treatment

Certainly some types of illnesses are more difficult to diagnose than others. However, it is essential that the physician does the testing and evaluation needed to come to the correct diagnosis. In some cases, CT scans, MRIs, blood tests, and other diagnostic procedures are needed in order to determine a patient’s medical condition. Once tests are performed, analysis must be done to confirm the conclusion.

Diagnosis Mistakes May be Considered Negligent Care

Doctors are held to a high standard of care. They are expected to provide proper care because of their extensive education, training, and experience. When a doctor makes a mistake, it may be considered negligent care. If so, the doctor may be responsible for medical malpractice. A claim by the patient may be necessary in order to get compensation for the damages caused by the mistake. If the patient died as a result of medical malpractice, the family may be entitled to compensation.

If you or a loved one were injured because of the mistake of a doctor, call the experienced legal team at Udall Shumway PLC for a consultation to discuss your options.

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 or someone you know wishes to seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney regarding A Delay in Medical Treatment, or other personal injury matters, call 480.461.5300. 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.