In the United States today, the most common cases of medical malpractice suits against radiologists is from diagnostic error, specifically in breast exams and non-vertebral and spinal fractures.
The University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey, with Jeremy S. Whang, M.D. and other colleagues, have used medical malpractice data from 8,401 radiologists in 47 states to track the most common cases of malpractice suits.
31% of radiologists have had at least one claim of medical malpractice made over the course of their career. Researchers found that diagnostic problems were the main cause of these lawsuits, with breast cancer, non-spinal fractures, spinal fractures, lung cancer and vascular disease being the most misdiagnosed.
Procedural complications and inadequate communication with the patient or referrer made up the next batch of most frequent reasons for medical malpractice suits. Failing to recommend further testing or treatment was a rare instance for filing these suits.
It is important to be aware of misdiagnoses and inadequate communication from radiologists or any other physicians, for that matter. At Bentoff & Duber, we are here to solve your case against any misdiagnoses. Contact us today.