Are Misread Test Results Considered Medical Malpractice? August 27, 2012.

Misread test results may qualify as medical malpractice, as long as certain conditions exist surrounding the misread results. Misread test results are a form of misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose that can be considered medical negligence and cause a doctor to be liable for malpractice provided that the victim, or his or her family members, can prove that negligence existed, something a Cleveland medical malpractice attorney can help with.

In order for misread test results to be considered a case of med mal, the injured party first must prove that the doctor was negligent in failing to read the results. To prove this, the injured party needs to show that a reasonable physician with the doctor’s same background and qualifications would not have misread the test results or made the mistake that the doctor or medical staff made.

If the doctor is considered negligent based on this professional standard, then the injured victim has to show that this negligence directly led to harm. In other words, some type of worse injury or illness must have resulted from the doctor’s failure to misread the test results properly.

Delayed treatment of an injury or illness that caused worsening conditions is one possible example of harm that can result from misread test results, as is receiving treatment for an illness you did not have. Provided you can show evidence, such as medical records or statements from health experts, you can be compensated for the damages you have endured. This can include medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages, if you had to miss time from work.

To schedule a free consultation or to learn more about your rights, contact us today at (440) 333-3800.