When a patient gets to the hospital, they hope that they will get the best and correct treatment for their ailment.
Unfortunately, misdiagnosis happens more often than we’d like to admit and it can lead to severe consequences.
An overview of medical misdiagnosis
When a misdiagnosis happens due to medical negligence, the patient is exposed to a myriad of serious medical errors that could have been avoided with proper care and attention. These may include:
- Wrong surgery: A misdiagnosis due to medical negligence may result in the patient undergoing unnecessary or incorrect surgical procedures, subjecting them to the risks and potential complications associated with surgery.
- Medication errors: Misdiagnosis may lead to incorrect prescriptions or medications being administered to the patient. This can result in adverse drug reactions, allergic reactions or worsening of the condition due to ineffective treatment.
- Delayed treatment: Medical negligence leading to misdiagnosis can delay the initiation of appropriate treatment, allowing the underlying condition to progress unchecked. This delay can result in worsened health outcomes, increased morbidity and even mortality.
- Spread of contagious diseases: Misdiagnosis of contagious diseases, such as infectious respiratory illnesses or sexually transmitted infections, can result in the inadvertent spread of the disease to others. Failure to promptly diagnose and isolate contagious patients can contribute to outbreaks within communities or healthcare settings.
Victims of misdiagnosis due to medical negligence endure prolonged suffering, face additional treatments to correct the error and may experience long-term health consequences, along with emotional distress and financial burdens.
Medical negligence in New Jersey is a serious matter that can have devastating effects on victims and their families. Victims can seek compensation by pursuing a medical malpractice lawsuit against the negligent healthcare provider or facility. Legal guidance can help ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve for their suffering and losses.
