Early diagnosis can be key to recovering from many significant diseases and illnesses. If a physician fails to diagnose a debilitating and life-threatening condition in a timely manner, the patient could suffer irreparable harm or even succumb to their medical condition. If a healthcare provider failed to diagnose you or a loved one when the signs of the illness or condition were present, you should consider your legal options. The delayed diagnosis attorneys at Friedman Schuman have over 40 years of experience representing the victims of medical malpractice. If you believe you have a delayed diagnosis medical malpractice case, contact Friedman Schuman today to schedule a consultation.
Consequences of a delayed diagnosis
The timing of a diagnosis can truly make all the difference in saving a patient’s life. Some health conditions can rapidly progress. If the issue is not found in time, it may be too late. Patients trust doctors to explore all potential diagnoses when faced with a health problem. The prognosis of diseases, like cancer, can rely heavily on an early diagnosis. If caught early, many cancers can be treated with chemotherapy and radiation. Unfortunately, if cancer is not discovered in time, the patient may be at an advanced stage with little chance of recovery. Other common delayed diagnoses with devastating impacts may include:
- Appendicitis
- Bone injuries
- Multiple sclerosis
- Congenital heart defects
- Heart attack
Delayed diagnosis lawsuits
If a patient believes he or she is the victim of medical malpractice due to a delayed diagnosis, they should consider legal action. If the patient has passed away due to delayed diagnosis, the decedent’s loved ones may consider pursuing a wrongful death case. In Pennsylvania, only the personal representative of the decedent’s estate is permitted to bring a case for the first six months after the death. If no action has been taken after six months, any other beneficiary may do so within two years from the date of the death.
Regardless of whether the victim or the surviving beneficiaries brings a lawsuit, they will be subject to the burden of proof. The attorney representing the victim or the family left behind can utilize medical records and test results to show that the physician was negligent in their delayed diagnosis. It is essential to retain the services of an attorney with the experience to successfully represent your interests. An attorney may be able to help you recover damages related to the emotional, financial, or physical toll sustained.
Contact our experienced PA & NJ delayed diagnosis attorneys
Clients throughout Pennsylvania & New Jersey know they can rely on the trusted legal services of Friedman Schuman. With over 40 years of experience, our firm has the skill, knowledge, and commitment necessary to help you recover damages and hold the negligent party accountable. If you or a loved one is the victim of a delayed diagnosis, contact Friedman Schuman today to schedule a consultation.
