Medical tests are an essential part of diagnosing and treating illnesses. However, when test results aren’t read correctly, it can lead to serious consequences for patients. Misread test results frequently result in a misdiagnosis, which may be the foundation for improper treatment. This has a variety of negative outcomes, including the progression of a disease, the development of complications, or even death. 
If a health care professional misread your test results, consulting with an experienced Kansas City medical malpractice lawyer ensures protection for your legal rights and possible compensation.
Dangers of Misread Test Results
Misread test results happen at various stages of medical care, from routine screenings to complex diagnostic procedures. A multitude of factors cause these errors including, but not limited to:
- Technician oversight
- Lack of experience
- Flawed equipment
- Physician's misjudgment
- Communication errors
It’s possible for any doctor or health care professional who’s in charge of reviewing and interpreting your test results to potentially misread them. However, this type of error is dangerous, and leads to serious consequences such as:
Delayed Diagnosis
If a condition isn’t diagnosed early, it can progress to a more serious stage, making it more challenging to treat. A delayed diagnosis might also cause additional injuries and irreversible harm. For example, if a patient is diagnosed with cancer in its earliest stages, it’s more treatable, but if it progresses to more advanced stages without notice, treatment can be more difficult and less successful.
Improper Treatment
If a patient is misdiagnosed, they may receive inappropriate care. A patient given the wrong medication or treatment causes further complications or even death.
Increased Risk of Harm
For example, if a patient isn’t diagnosed with a blood clot, they may be at increased risk of a stroke.
Possible Medical Malpractice Damages in Kansas City
If you suffered an injury due to a misread test result, you may be entitled to various types of damages, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost income
- Disability
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
- Punitive damages
In Missouri, there are certain caps set for non-economic damages. These don’t involve out-of-pocket loss. For a standard medical malpractice case, you’re able to claim up to $400,000 in non-economic damages. For cases involving serious personal injury or wrongful death, you can claim up to $700,000 in non-economic damages.
Why You Need a Medical Malpractice Lawyer
If you believe you or a loved one was harmed due to misread test results, consult with a medical malpractice attorney right away to discuss your legal options. Navigating a medical malpractice case alone can be complex and challenging. Hospitals and health care professionals typically have a strong legal defense team. Proving negligence requires a thorough understanding of medical standards and legal procedures. An experienced Kansas City medical malpractice lawyer helps build a strong case by:
Investigation
A skilled attorney conducts a comprehensive investigation of your case by gathering evidence, reviewing medical records, consulting with experts, and identifying the crucial details needed to establish liability for the misread test results.
Handling All Legal Processes
Medical malpractice cases involve complex legal procedures and strict deadlines. A lawyer ensures all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time. In Kansas City, the statute of limitations for a medical malpractice lawsuit is two years from the date of the injury or when the injury should have been reasonably discovered. There are certain exceptions to this rule.
Negotiating With An Insurance Company
Insurance companies may undervalue your claim and pressure you to settle for less than it’s worth. An experienced lawyer negotiates with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
Representing You In Court
If an insurance company doesn't settle your medical malpractice claim, a savvy trial attorney takes your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
