Delayed diagnosis is one of the most common types of medical malpractice claims, and this mistake can cost patients valuable time that could be spent on treatments, medications, and recovery. Untimely diagnosis can cause conditions to worsen and new issues to occur, and doctors who fail to provide a timely diagnosis may be responsible for the harm patients suffer as a result.
If you suspect that your delayed diagnosis is a result of medical negligence, contact a Connecticut delayed diagnosis lawyer at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC. Access to the appropriate medical care within a reasonable amount of time is crucial, and doctors who delay a diagnosis for their patients could be at fault for the damage the extra time causes.
Depending on the type of medical issue and the severity, a delay in diagnosis could result in lifelong complications or death. Failure to quickly identify heart problems, for example, could lead to cardiac arrest. A delayed diagnosis of severe infections can lead to organ failure or the loss of limbs. Delayed cancer diagnoses are often especially harmful due to the chances of metastasis, which is when the cancer spreads from its original location to surrounding tissue or organs.
Essentially, any time that the necessary medical care is not provided, there is a risk that the patient’s condition will worsen. Delayed diagnosis causes patients to wait longer for the treatment they need.
While any extended period of time between symptom onset and treatment could be harmful, not all delays are a result of medical malpractice or negligence. Typically, the delayed diagnosis must be caused by an error and be the result of a deviation from the standard of care that doctors are obligated to provide. The delay must also have caused substantial harm to the patient.
The potential for severe complications is high when a diagnosis is delayed, and some people experience life-threatening issues without access to the appropriate care. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a delayed diagnosis, a Connecticut delayed diagnosis attorney can help you understand your legal options.
Connecticut allows injured patients to seek economic and non-economic damages for the harm caused by delayed diagnoses. Economic damages are typically associated with objective costs and harm that is easily valued, such as medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages include subjective costs, like pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.
Medical malpractice cases are notoriously challenging, which is why experienced legal representation is crucial for the success of your delayed diagnosis claim. An attorney will provide invaluable assistance during your Connecticut malpractice claim, ensuring compliance with the numerous requirements, such as obtaining an expert medical opinion and building a strong case to prove a delayed diagnosis.
Contact the attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, today. Our lawyers have over 100 years of combined experience in medical malpractice claims. When you’re ready to pursue compensation for the injuries you’ve suffered due to a doctor’s negligence, we’ll be there to fight for your best interests every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with a Connecticut delayed diagnosis lawyer.