Medical Malpractice: Doctors Are Misdiagnosing, Report Shows

According to a study published by the Institute of Medicine, most people will suffer at least one delayed diagnosis or incorrect diagnosis in their lifetime. This study also reports that 5% of adults who receive outpatient care will receive an incorrect diagnosis and of those events, up to 17% are considered adverse events (medical malpractice) and contribute to 10% of patient deaths.

This study opened up one of the biggest challenges in diagnosing illness: communication between all parties including patients, physicians, nurses, other hospital staff and families.

The attorneys and medical malpractice team at McEnery Price Messey & Sullivan remind you of the following when you or a loved one is being treated:

1. Tell your doctor EVERYTHING. A symptom may seem insignificant to you, but it could be the difference between two different diagnoses and/or testing recommendations.
2. Tell your doctor any and all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
3. Tell your doctor your entire medical history and your family medical history.

If you believe you or a loved one is a victim of medical malpractice, find out now