Can you sue the doctor who misdiagnosed you?

If a doctor gave you the wrong diagnosis and your condition got worse, you may have a valid medical malpractice claim. Please answer a few questions to help us match you with attorneys in your area. By clicking “Submit,” you agree to the Martindale-Nolo Texting Terms.

Are there any diseases that can be misdiagnosed?

While there are as many potential misdiagnosis scenarios as there are diseases and other health problems, some of the most common types of misdiagnosis are: asthma (often misdiagnosed as recurring bronchitis) cancer (misdiagnosis can lead to painful, debilitating and unnecessary treatment like chemotherapy and radiation)

Can a skillful doctor make a diagnostic error?

Skillful doctors can and do make diagnostic errors even when using reasonable care. The key is determining whether the doctor acted competently, which involves an evaluation of what the doctor did and did not do in arriving at a diagnosis. This means looking at the “differential diagnosis” method the doctor used in making treatment determinations.

How many people have been misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis?

Researchers say most of the people misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis had been treated for the disease for years. Getty Images The misdiagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) is a problem with significant consequences for patients as well as the healthcare system. There are nearly 1 million people in the United States living with the disease.

If a doctor gave you the wrong diagnosis and your condition got worse, you may have a valid medical malpractice claim. Please answer a few questions to help us match you with attorneys in your area. By clicking “Submit,” you agree to the Martindale-Nolo Texting Terms.

Can a doctor make a misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis?

A misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis itself is not evidence of negligence. Skillful doctors can and do make diagnostic errors even when using reasonable care. The key is determining whether the doctor acted competently, which involves an evaluation of what the doctor did and did not do in arriving at a diagnosis.

Why was the Suzuki Samurai sued by Consumer Reports?

Contrary to popular belief, no one sued the Samurai for being an unsafe car. Suzuki sued Consumer Reports magazine in 1996 for making a damaging statement against them, even if it was not intended to be.

Skillful doctors can and do make diagnostic errors even when using reasonable care. The key is determining whether the doctor acted competently, which involves an evaluation of what the doctor did and did not do in arriving at a diagnosis. This means looking at the “differential diagnosis” method the doctor used in making treatment determinations.