PROTECTING THE LEGAL INTERESTS OF INJURED HAWAII RESIDENTS AND VISITORS SINCE 1973

Hawaii patients should be aware of misdiagnosis problems

On Behalf of | May 8, 2015 | Medical Malpractice |

A recent article suggested that medical malpractice is an ongoing problem in many states, most likely including Hawaii. Various issues were mentioned as the most common forms of malpractice named in claims filed by patients. Misdiagnosis was said to be the number one cause of malpractice claims.

When a medical patient becomes injured or suffers ill-health due to the negligent actions or lack of competence of professional medical staff members, he or she is entitled to file a medical malpractice claim against those who are believed to be at-fault. A recent article suggests that certain health conditions are among those that are often misdiagnosed. Reportedly, adults often suffer from heart trouble and cancer related conditions that have not been correctly diagnosed by physicians.

In addition to wrong diagnoses, other forms of malpractice include the failure to properly inform a patient of known health risks involved in certain procedures, improper dispensing of medication and failure to perform appropriate and timely treatment for an injury or illness. The article stated that fatalities occur among 15 to 48 percent of misdiagnosed patients. One woman, who is both a registered nurse and an attorney, stated that it can be difficult for a patient to prove that a medical doctor has been negligent or in error when offering a diagnosis of a medical condition.

Because circumstances surrounding a medical injury or illness caused by misdiagnosis can be complex and complicated, Hawaii residents will likely benefit by seeking the advice of a legal professional who has experience in medical malpractice cases. The recent article stated that patients should prepare their case by documenting as many details pertaining to the medical care rendered and the dates and times involved in the medical process as possible. Accurate records regarding care and medical expenses are said to be crucial for patients who are considering filing legal claims in court.

Source: ahwatukee.com, “Misdiagnosis: The most common medical malpractice“, April 29, 2015

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