Why And When You Need A Fort Dodge Misdiagnosis Attorney
Medical misdiagnosis can lead to prolonged suffering, unnecessary treatments and, in some cases, life-threatening consequences. When a doctor or health care provider fails to diagnose a condition correctly, the patient may not receive the care they need or could be subjected to harmful treatments.
In Iowa, medical professionals have a duty of care to their patients, meaning they are legally obligated to provide competent and accurate medical treatment. If they fail, victims can seek legal action. However, proving a misdiagnosis case can be legally complex, making it crucial to work with an experienced misdiagnosis attorney.
For 75-plus years, Johnson, Mulholland, Cochrane, Cochrane, Yung & Engler, P.L.C., has provided dedicated representation to those affected by medical negligence in Fort Dodge and its smaller office in Gowrie, Iowa. With strong community ties and a history of favorable outcomes, we are equipped to handle complex medical misdiagnosis claims. Our experienced attorneys understand how to hold negligent health care providers accountable and fight for the compensation patients deserve.
What Is Misdiagnosis In Iowa?
Misdiagnosis occurs when a health care professional incorrectly identifies a patient’s condition, leading to inappropriate treatment, delayed care or no treatment at all. A misdiagnosis can happen at any stage of medical care, from a primary care physician’s office to an emergency room or specialty clinic.
Doctors, nurses, radiologists and various other health care professionals can cause or contribute to a misdiagnosis. While physicians are most commonly found to be at fault, mistakes by lab technicians or specialists who interpret test results can also result in an incorrect diagnosis.
Some of the most common misdiagnoses include:
- Cancer: Delayed cancer diagnosis can impact treatment options and survival rates
- Heart attacks and strokes: Symptoms may be mistaken for anxiety, acid reflux or migraines
- Infections: Serious infections like sepsis or meningitis are sometimes overlooked
- Autoimmune disorders: Lupus, multiple sclerosis and similar diseases can mimic other conditions, leading to diagnostic errors
Unfortunately, a misdiagnosis can happen for various reasons. Examples include:
- Failure to order the correct diagnostic tests
- Misinterpretation of test results
- Ignoring patient symptoms
- Rushed evaluations due to understaffing
A 2023 Iowa Department of Health and Human Services report highlights the frequency of medical errors in the state, showing the serious risks patients face when health care providers fail to diagnose conditions correctly. Our experienced lawyers at Johnson, Mulholland, Cochrane, Cochrane, Yung & Engler, P.L.C., have what it takes to prove negligence in a misdiagnosis error.
How To Prove Negligence In A Misdiagnosis Error
To successfully bring a medical malpractice claim for misdiagnosis in Iowa, an attorney must demonstrate that negligence occurred. Iowa follows specific negligence laws that outline how fault is determined.
A medical misdiagnosis lawyer will work to prove the following:
- A doctor-patient relationship existed
- The health care provider owed a duty of care
- The provider breached this duty through negligent actions or inactions
- The misdiagnosis caused harm or damage to the patient
A knowledgeable misdiagnosis lawyer will gather medical evidence, consult with expert witnesses and build a strong case that demonstrates misdiagnosis led to preventable harm.
What Experienced Medical Misdiagnosis Attorneys Do To Get Compensation
An experienced attorney can help secure compensation for victims of medical misdiagnosis. The legal process involves:
- Collecting evidence: Obtaining medical records, diagnostic reports and treatment history
- Consulting experts: Working with medical professionals who can testify about the standard of care
- Negotiating settlements: Engaging with insurance companies and opposing counsel to seek fair compensation
- Filing a lawsuit: Taking the case to court if a settlement cannot be reached
Our skilled lawyers leverage their network and legal knowledge to fight for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We will walk with you through every step of the process.
Contact A Trusted Fort Dodge Medical Misdiagnosis Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a medical misdiagnosis, you need not face the legal process alone. Johnson, Mulholland, Cochrane, Cochrane, Yung & Engler, P.L.C., has been serving the Fort Dodge community for 75 years, providing dedicated legal representation to victims of medical malpractice.
With extensive knowledge of Iowa’s legal system, our attorneys are ready to fight for you. Call 515-639-3124 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward justice.