When patients enter a hospital or other medical facility, they do so for the purpose of receiving the treatment they need. For this to happen, patients must receive an accurate and timely diagnosis.
The diagnostic procedure begins from the very first patient/doctor consultation. Unfortunately, this is something that doctors don’t always get right. They may make mistakes with the diagnosis or take too long to get there.
A delayed diagnosis can have severe repercussions for patients. What are some of the more common causes of delayed diagnosis?
Not taking time with patients
While technology and medical tests are pivotal in diagnostics, the process begins with listening to patients. Doctors should take their time to discuss symptoms with patients. This may alert them to something that hasn’t been picked up on the tests. After all, nobody understands better how they are feeling than the patient themself.
Complacency from medical staff
Doctors and other medical staff put in years of training to qualify. They also deal with multiple patients and different ailments every single day. This equips medical staff with high levels of expertise. Nonetheless, this experience doesn’t mean that they know everything. Doctor complacency is often cited in cases of delayed diagnosis.
Understaffing
Unfortunately, some healthcare facilities in the U.S. struggle to bring in enough staff to cope with demand. Understaffing results in doctors having to see too many patients. This increases the likelihood of errors such as delayed diagnosis.
If you believe your medical team has failed in the duty of care they owe you, you may be able to claim financial compensation. Seek legal guidance to find out more about medical malpractice suits.