Colon Cancer Misdiagnosis Lawyer

What Is Colon Cancer? 

Also known as colorectal cancer, this type of cancer affects an organ in the large intestines called the colon. According to a recent study, colon cancer usually starts as small, benign clumps of cells called adenomatous polyps. These polyps may later become cancerous and spread to the rest of the body. Early screening plays a critical role in diagnosis and prompt treatment. 

Impact of Misdiagnosis on Patient Outcomes 

In the worst-case scenario, misdiagnosed patients could miss the opportunity to get the life-saving treatment they need. Sometimes, the medical care provided can worsen the illness or its associated symptoms. This negligence could cost them their lives as the actual issue remains untreated or treated too late.  

Misdiagnosis is also problematic when the treatment is invasive or otherwise severe, like chemotherapy— an intense treatment option that can lead to hair loss, forgetfulness, nausea and mouth sores. Additionally, treatments for illnesses/diseases are expensive, which can cause financial distress and the early selling of assets to cover medical bills.  

If you or your loved one suffered financial losses due to a misdiagnosis, you may be eligible to file a colon cancer misdiagnosis lawsuit to recover these and other related costs. 

Common Errors Leading to Colon Cancer Misdiagnosis 

Errors can occur at several stages of the diagnosis progress. One CNBC article found that young people often had to see multiple doctors before getting an accurate diagnosis.  

Here are some common errors affecting patients of all ages: 

• Failure to consider risk factors: Doctors may believe someone is at low risk for developing colon cancer, especially if they’re young. However, other risk factors could be at play, like family history or higher rates among specific racial demographics. 

• Failure to conduct the appropriate tests: There are several tests available for doctors to identify and confirm whether a patient has colon cancer. However, they often decline to order these tests if they deem someone an unlikely candidate or if the initial test is negative. 

• Misinterpreting tests: Sometimes, the doctor might incorrectly judge a test as negative. Doctors can misinterpret test results, such as wrongfully identifying samples as benign. 

• Failure to follow up and monitor: Healthcare professionals may start diagnosing patients but then neglect to follow up on test results. Other times, they don’t refer patients to specialists in time. This can be especially problematic for doctors who tell patients they will only get a call from the office if they discover something concerning. 

• Confusing colon cancer with other conditions: Internal hemorrhoids can be confused with colon cancer and are one of the leading causes of delayed treatment. Other potential illnesses misdiagnosed as colon cancer include colitis, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticulitis. 

Legal Implications of Colon Cancer Misdiagnosis 

A cancer misdiagnosis can also lead to significant financial and emotional strain. Patients and their families could face exorbitant medical bills, lost wages, and other damages due to delayed diagnosis and treatment. 

In some cases, patients may be able to file a medical malpractice lawsuit against the doctor or healthcare facility. These lawsuits can hold medical professionals accountable for their actions and provide compensation for the damages incurred. 

Unfortunately, patients sometimes do not survive their doctors’ negligence. When this happens, eligible survivors may file a wrongful death claim instead. 

Why Seek Legal Representation for Misdiagnosis 

Medical malpractice lawsuits are a complex mix of medicine, healthcare practices, and law. Professionals can properly review the evidence based on industry knowledge and help build a solid case. Hiring an NYC medical malpractice lawyer familiar with medical misdiagnosis cases can also help you understand your rights and take steps to protect them. 

Each case is different, but there are some general steps your attorney might take to prove negligence: 

• Establish a doctor-patient relationship. In legal terms, this means that the patient has sought treatment from the doctor and agreed to follow their recommendations. 

• Prove deviation from standard care practices. Your colon cancer misdiagnosis lawyer may consult medical experts to determine what actions a reasonable and competent medical professional would take under similar circumstances. It could be considered negligence if your doctor did not follow these standards of care. 

• Link negligence to damages. Finally, your attorney must prove how the doctor’s negligence resulted in harm or damage. This can include physical pain, financial losses, and emotional distress. 

How Rheingold Law Can Help 

Our law firm has highly experienced cancer misdiagnosis lawyers with a strong record of settling or securing significant compensation. We are willing to do what it takes to get field experts who can provide a thorough understanding of the technical aspects of your case and take a stand on your behalf. Schedule your consultation today to find out how we can help you.