How Does Failure to Disclose Medical History Impact a Medical Malpractice Case?
A recent medical malpractice case, not one of ours, demonstrated the importance of providing complete disclosure to your doctor about your complete medical history. The case, tragically, involved a patient who suffered a stroke after taking birth control pills prescribed by her doctor. The court, and subsequent appellate courts, ruled in favor of the doctor, and against the plaintiff, because the patient failed to inform him that she had a history of strokes and was diagnosed with thrombophilia.
When it comes to medical treatment, communication between the patient and the doctor is crucial. One of the most important aspects of this communication is the patient’s medical history. Providing your doctor with a full and accurate medical history is critical to ensuring your safety and avoiding potentially life-threatening outcomes from a prescription or medical procedure.
There are many reasons why disclosing your medical history is important. First and foremost, certain medical conditions or allergies can make it dangerous or even deadly to take certain medications or undergo certain procedures. By knowing your medical history, your doctor can make informed decisions about your treatment plan and avoid any potential complications.
Another reason disclosing your medical history is important is that some medical conditions can affect the accuracy of diagnostic tests. For example, if you have a pacemaker, it can interfere with an electrocardiogram (ECG) and produce inaccurate results. By knowing your medical history, your doctor can take these factors into account and ensure that you receive the most accurate diagnosis and treatment.
It is also important to disclose any medications or supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter medications. Some medications can interact with each other and cause dangerous side effects. By knowing your full medical history, your doctor can identify any potential drug interactions and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Unfortunately, mistakes and errors do occur in the medical field, and these can have grave consequences for patients. If you believe that you have suffered harm as a result of medical malpractice, it is important to contact one of our experienced attorneys as soon as possible. It is important to note that there is a statute of limitations for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit, so it is important to act quickly.
In conclusion, providing your doctor with a full and accurate medical history is critical to ensuring your safety and avoiding potentially life-threatening outcomes. By being honest and forthcoming with your doctor, you can help ensure that you receive the best possible care. And if you believe that you have been the victim of medical malpractice, do not hesitate to contact the experienced attorneys at Warshauer Woodward Atkins (404) 892-4900 or email us to discuss your legal options.
