A misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose a medical condition can have devastating consequences, including prolonged illness, unnecessary treatment, or even death. While not every misdiagnosis is grounds for a medical malpractice claim, some cases involve negligence that directly harms the patient. At Burnside Law Firm in Augusta and Athens, GA, we help victims and their families seek justice when medical errors result in injury or loss.
Understanding Misdiagnosis and Medical Malpractice
A misdiagnosis occurs when a healthcare provider incorrectly identifies a patient’s condition, while failure to diagnose involves missing a condition altogether. In either case, the consequences can be severe. For example:
- A heart attack misdiagnosed as indigestion could lead to fatal delays in treatment.
- Failure to diagnose cancer at an early stage may allow the disease to progress, reducing survival chances.
- Incorrectly diagnosing a benign condition as serious can result in unnecessary surgeries or treatments, exposing the patient to risks.
When Is It Medical Malpractice?
Not every misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose qualifies as malpractice. To prove a claim in Georgia, you must demonstrate:
- A doctor-patient relationship existed, establishing the provider’s duty of care.
- The healthcare provider was negligent, meaning they failed to meet the standard of care expected of a competent provider in similar circumstances.
- The negligence directly caused harm to the patient.
Common scenarios where misdiagnosis may constitute malpractice include:
- Ignoring or misinterpreting diagnostic tests.
- Failing to recognize symptoms of a known condition.
- Not referring the patient to a specialist when appropriate.
- Rushing through a consultation without thoroughly evaluating the patient’s history or complaints.
The Impact of Misdiagnosis
The consequences of a misdiagnosis can be life-altering. According to a 2023 study by Johns Hopkins University, approximately 795,000 deaths and 1.4 million injuries annually in the U.S. are related to diagnostic errors. Conditions commonly involved in misdiagnosis cases include cancer, heart disease, stroke, and infections like sepsis.
In Georgia, patients who suffer injuries due to misdiagnosis may face:
- Increased medical costs for unnecessary or prolonged treatments.
- Loss of income due to extended recovery times or permanent disability.
- Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional.
Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim in Georgia
Medical malpractice claims in Georgia are governed by strict laws, including a two-year statute of limitations for filing a claim. To build a strong case, you will need to have detailed medical records and testimony from medical experts who can explain how the provider’s negligence deviated from the standard of care.
At Burnside Law Firm, our experienced attorneys work with trusted medical professionals to investigate claims, gather evidence, and advocate for fair compensation. With offices in Augusta and Athens, GA, Burnside Law Firm has a proven track record of helping victims of medical malpractice. We understand the complexities of Georgia’s legal system and are dedicated to holding negligent healthcare providers accountable.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been harmed by a misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Burnside Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you seek justice and regain control of your future.
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