If you went to a doctor because you were experiencing pain, weakness, stomach problems or other symptoms, you expect the doctor to perform some kind of examination. An examination can help a doctor diagnose your condition and determine what kind of medical problem you...
Misdiagnosis
Why do doctors often reach the wrong diagnosis?
To many patients, the diagnostic process may seem like a mystery. Doctors can take simple symptoms that could stem from a variety of different medical challenges and determine exactly what causes them. An accurate diagnosis is of the utmost importance for proper...
Women are more likely to have a misdiagnosed heart attack
There are discrepancies in how doctors treat heart attacks between men and women. Some studies find that a misdiagnosis is much more common if the patient is female. It’s more likely that a doctor will decide she is suffering from a minor ailment, such as heartburn,...
Doctors often misdiagnose this warning sign of lymphoma
Accurate diagnosis is of the utmost importance for those with medical issues. Treatment options vary drastically from one medical condition to the next. Even conditions that present similar symptoms may require different care. Doctors receive extensive training on how...
Preventing a missed cancer diagnosis scenario in 2025
A missed cancer diagnosis is one of the most devastating medical errors a patient can experience. Early detection is often the key to successful treatment, and delays caused by missed diagnoses can lead to worsened prognoses, aggressive treatments and even loss of...
Can doctors be liable for downplaying your concerns?
Have you ever felt dismissed by a doctor who told you that you were "too young" to have a particular illness? This scenario can frustrate and potentially endanger patients. In New Jersey, doctors who cause harm through such actions may face medical malpractice...
What to know about referrals in medicine
Typically, patients go to a primary care physician (PCP) first when they have a medical problem. PCPs are skilled in providing healthcare services, but they are not specialists. Hence, they need to refer patients to specialists in certain situations. Here is what to...
Doctors misdiagnose female heart attacks more often
When a doctor misdiagnoses a heart attack, the patient may pass away. For instance, say that someone rushes to the emergency room because they believe they’re having a heart attack. The doctor sees them and says that they’re just dealing with indigestion and anxiety....
Why a delayed cancer diagnosis can still be fatal
If your doctor misses a cancer diagnosis entirely, you know that it can have a serious impact on your life. You’re not going to get the treatment that you need. The cancer could become fatal, all because your doctor didn’t identify it correctly. But there are other...
Overworked doctors may not give patients the attention they need
Patients rely on medical professionals for everything from diagnosis to treatment recommendations. There needs to be honest communication and trust for the relationship to function properly. Patients often approach healthcare relationships with the idea that a doctor...
