What is Misdiagnosis, and How Can it Lead to Malpractice?

Understanding Misdiagnosis and Medical Malpractice

Medical misdiagnosis happens when a doctor incorrectly diagnoses a patient’s condition or fails to diagnose it at all. This can lead to serious health issues, delayed treatments, and even wrongful death. Unfortunately, misdiagnosis is more common than most people realize. A study by Johns Hopkins found that medical errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States, responsible for over 250,000 deaths per year (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2016). Studies report that at least half of that number is the result of diagnostic errors. Indeed, Johns Hopkins reports that an estimated 795,000 Americans die or are permanently disabled by diagnostic error each year.

At LawMD, we know the law and we know the medicine. What sets us apart from other firms is that most of our attorneys are also medical doctors. This unique advantage means we understand the complexities of medical malpractice cases because we understand the medicine not just as medical malpractice attorneys, but as experienced doctors who are trained, collectively, in over 15 distinct medical disciplines.

The Shocking Truth About Medical Misdiagnosis

Many people assume that misdiagnosis is rare, but the statistics tell a different story:

1 in 3 patients will experience a diagnostic error in their lifetime (National Academy of Medicine, 2015).
Cancer, vascular events (like strokes), and infections make up nearly 75% of all serious misdiagnoses (Johns Hopkins, 2019).
Women and minorities are 30% more likely to be misdiagnosed compared to white male patients (Journal of General Internal Medicine, 2021).

These numbers prove that misdiagnosis isn’t just an isolated issue—it’s a public health crisis.

How Does Misdiagnosis Lead to Medical Malpractice?

Misdiagnosis itself is not always considered malpractice. However, it becomes medical malpractice when a doctor’s negligence causes harm. This can happen in several ways:

1. Delayed Diagnosis

A late diagnosis can mean the difference between life and death. For example, 97% of pancreatic cancer cases are fatal when diagnosed late, compared to only 10% if caught early (American Cancer Society, 2022).

2. Wrong Diagnosis, Wrong Treatment

Imagine being treated for acid reflux when you’re actually having a heart attack. A 2018 study found that 30% of stroke patients were initially misdiagnosed in the ER (American Stroke Association, 2018). A wrong diagnosis can lead to harmful treatments or delay life-saving care.

3. Failure to Order Proper Tests

Doctors may skip essential tests due to bias, overconfidence, or rushing through appointments. Research shows that one-third of all misdiagnoses could be prevented with better testing (BMJ Open, 2019).

4. Ignoring Patient Symptoms

Some doctors dismiss symptoms, especially in women and people of color. Studies have found that women are 50% more likely than men to be misdiagnosed after a heart attack (British Heart Foundation, 2020).

The Devastating Impact of Misdiagnosis

Misdiagnosis can result in life-altering consequences, including:

Wrongful death – Misdiagnosed illnesses like cancer and heart disease can become fatal when not treated in time.
Permanent disability – A misdiagnosed stroke or infection can lead to brain damage, paralysis, or amputation.
Unnecessary surgeries and treatments – Some patients undergo dangerous procedures or take medications they don’t actually need.
Emotional and financial stress – Families often face expensive medical bills and emotional trauma when a loved one suffers due to a doctor’s mistake.

Why Choose LawMD for Your Medical Malpractice Case?

At LawMD, our team is made up of both doctors and lawyers. This means we have the expertise to analyze medical records, consult experts, and quickly build a strong case even when the medicine in a case is complex.. Unlike law firms without doctors, we understand both the legal system and the medical complexities that come with misdiagnosis cases.

How We Can Help

No Fees Unless We Win – You don’t pay unless we secure a settlement or verdict for you.
Free Consultation – We review your case at no cost.
Medical-Legal Expertise – Our doctor-lawyers have firsthand medical experience.
Proven Track Record – We have won millions in compensation for our clients.

Take Action If You Have Been Misdiagnosed

If you or a loved one has suffered a permanent disability or death due to a medical misdiagnosis, you deserve justice. Contact LawMD today for a free consultation. Our unique team of doctor-lawyers will fight to hold negligent doctors accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.