Tampa Medical Misdiagnosis Lawyer
Medical misdiagnosis is a terrifying possibility. As a patient, not only do you put your trust in your doctor, but your life is in their hands, as well. You depend on them to do their jobs and uphold the standards that are put in place to ensure a successful outcome. Unfortunately, we have situations where this doesn’t hold true. That is where Medical Malpractice comes to light.
What is Medical Misdiagnosis?
While the legal definition may vary a little depending on the circumstances of the case, medical misdiagnosis generally refers to the failure to uphold the standard of care of the patient. It could be the result of medical malpractice misdiagnosis or an error that is not considered negligence. Medical misdiagnosis cases can lead to severe injuries, and possibly even death.
How do I Know if I Have a Medical Malpractice Misdiagnosis Case in Florida?
While states do have their own discernment of what they consider negligence and malpractice, here are a few examples of what would generally be considered medical malpractice:
- Failure to follow the standard testing procedures
- Unnecessarily delaying the testing
- Delayed diagnosis
- Incorrectly interpreting the results
- Ignorance of the patient’s medical history
What Should I do for a Medical Misdiagnosis?
Your first step should always be to reach out to an experienced medical lawyer. Medical malpractice law is very complex and confusing. It’s imperative you tell your lawyer exactly what happened, as well as provide any relevant information which might be helpful. Make sure to make copies of any and all bills and records, as well. Your lawyer might ask you some questions such as:
- When did you first talk to your doctor?
- Was there a delayed diagnosis?
- How were you treated?
- What information were you given about your treatment?
- What procedures did you undergo?
- Did the doctor provide you with any instructions, and did you follow them?
- What happened after the treatment?
- What symptoms are you having right now that you believe are because of medical malpractice?
My Doctor Admitted to Making a Mistake, Do I Have a Case?
Chances are the answer is “yes,” but it will depend on various factors. If your doctor did not uphold the standard of care, it was likely medical malpractice. But as each case is different, only a medical lawyer can give you a conclusive answer.
Who do I Sue for Medical Misdiagnosis in Florida?
Any medical professional who provided you with medical service. While that’s usually your doctor, it could also be any of the nurses who assisted, and laboratory technicians, or anyone in the hospital staff. It is possible that the whole hospital is sued, as well as the ambulance company, depending on the severity of the lawsuit.
What Should I do at the Emergency Room?
The emergency room can be a scary and confusing place. You’re likely already in a compromised situation, and it might be difficult to focus on what is going on. Not only that, but the idea of medical malpractice is not something you’d like to have in mind during your visit.
Make sure to ask plenty of questions, and get as much in writing as possible. Any medicine they administer, what diagnosis they made, as well as the names of anyone who provided any care to you. Make sure to get copies of your discharge papers as well.
What do I do with my Medical Misdiagnosis Evidence?
You should always aim to gather as much information and evidence as possible. Once you have acquired everything, make copies to keep the originals safe. It’s important to speak with a lawyer who can set up the course of action. You generally only have one chance to make your case, so it’s vital that you make it count.
It has Been Several Years Since my Medical Misdiagnosis, can I Still Sue?
While it is usually more difficult to sue years later, it’s not unheard of. You would have to speak to an experienced medical lawyer in your state to get a definite answer. The statute of limitations in Florida on medical malpractice is two to seven years, depending on the circumstances. If you believe you have been injured due to the medical malpractice of a healthcare professional, it’s imperative that you reach out to a lawyer as soon as possible.
What Compensation Can I Expect from a Medical Misdiagnosis Cases?
While it is difficult to provide a blanket statement, your lawyer will generally attempt to recover any medical expenses, out-of-pocket expenses, and damages to your mental and physical well-being. The amount heavily depends on the severity of the injury. Since these numbers vary on a case-by-case basis, only your medical lawyer will be able to give you an answer.
Contact a Medical Misdiagnosis Lawyer in Tampa
Make sure to contact an experienced medical lawyer. That should be your first goal. Try to address the situation as soon as possible, and don’t forget to keep accurate and detailed records of everything. Those tips will help you make the most of your case so that you can receive the compensation you deserve.
At Darrigo & Diaz, we have successfully argued medical malpractice cases, resulting in the recovery of damages our clients needed to move on with their lives. If you’re in need of a medical misdiagnosis attorney in Tampa, contact us at (813) 774-3341 for a complimentary, no-obligation consultation right over the phone. You can also contact us online with any questions you have.