MISDIAGNOSIS

A misdiagnosis is an incorrect conclusion about the cause of a disease or problem.

Misdiagnoses happen all the time in all kinds of different clinical settings, including the emergency department, a family doctor's office, or with a specialist doctor. A misdiagnosis, however, does not automatically equate with medical negligence. Over time or with further investigations, new medical information may reveal the correct diagnosis to a particular concern thereby proving a misdiagnosis was made. 

Whether a misdiagnosis equates to medical negligence depends on what a reasonable and careful physician knew or should have known at the time the misdiagnosis was made. You cannot win a medical malpractice lawsuit using the benefit of hindsight against a physician. 

A misdiagnosis can cause serious harm, disability and even death to a patient. If it was a cancer misdiagnosis, it may be that over time their cancer went from curable to incurable. If it was something surgical, like appendicitis, it could mean the difference between a smooth surgery and recovery or prolonged hospitalization and residual disability.

It is widely accepted in medicine that the earlier a particular disease or medical problem is treated, the better the patient's outcome. Misdiagnosis and delay in treatment go hand in hand.

Every misdiagnosis case is different and will require careful review by an experienced medical malpractice lawyer who can give you advice on whether your misdiagnoses may give rise to legal liability or not.

Toronto medical malpractice lawyer Paul Cahill has significant experience in litigating medical misdiagnosis lawsuits. E-mail Paul Cahill today to request a free consultation on whether you may have a lawsuit for a misdiagnosis.