Over 86% of cancer patients in Buffalo city, New York, have all-invasive tumors. Cancer misdiagnosis cases occur when a cancer patient has been given the wrong diagnosis, either because of a physician’s error or faulty lab work.
These lawsuits are often traumatic for patients who are already going through treatment only to discover that they were misdiagnosed. Unfortunately, this type of medical malpractice happens more than you might think – about 3% of cases. So if you live in Buffalo City and have been a victim of such an error, contact reputed Buffalo cancer law firms that specialize in cases of medical malpractices.
Cancer Misdiagnosis: A Serious Problem
A cancer misdiagnosis is a traumatic and painful experience, mainly when it has led to unnecessary medical treatments. That said, what makes these cases even more troubling is that they don’t just happen by accident. Some common causes that lead to cancer misdiagnosis are:
- Physician error or lack of information
- Faulty laboratory tests
If you’ve had a misdiagnosis make sure to file a lawsuit and prevent others from suffering from such a crisis. Talk to one of the numerous Buffalo cancer law firms present in the city and take these steps:
1) Pursue a Second Opinion
Doing nothing is never the best choice, especially when your health is on the line. Get more opinions from different physicians if you have any doubts about your diagnosis. You have a right to know what is going on with your body, and the truth will always set you free – even if it turns out that treatment isn’t necessary.
2) Gather information
Request the hospital to provide you with records from the initial visit as soon as possible after finding out about a misdiagnosis. This can help you to build a case against the doctor who gave you bad news.
You will also want copies of test results and other medical records from any procedures you have had before, during, or after your misdiagnosis treatment.
3) Talk to a Lawyer
Most people don’t know that it is illegal for hospitals to share patient information without written consent. Unfortunately, this often results in families being told false information about loved ones out of ignorance or malice.
It is essential to understand that you have the final say over any medical information given about you. If someone shared your private records without permission, you could be compensated for medical malpractice. Talk to a lawyer experienced in the field of medical malpractice for advice and file a lawsuit against the person at fault.
4) Seek Legal Guidance
Suppose the patient was given a cancer misdiagnosis and underwent treatments. In that case, the patient and family members may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, disfigurement, or wrongful death in a civil claim.
You can also file complaints at the state licensing boards in New York and in the state where the doctor practices, which could lead to disciplinary action against the doctor.
5) Take Necessary Actions
If you believe that you have been diagnosed with the wrong type of cancer or if you disagree with your treatment plan, talk to a law firm about filing a lawsuit. Not only could this result in compensation for medical bills and damages, but it could also prevent the same thing from happening to someone else.
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait another day to meet a Buffalo cancer law firm expert if you believe that you were misdiagnosed. Do research, get more opinions, talk with a lawyer, and take legal action against the wrongdoings.