When medical errors delay the diagnosis or treatment of breast cancer, the consequences of this turn of events can be life-altering. Early detection is one of the most pressing concerns that most medical providers and patients have when it comes to successfully treating breast cancer.
When doctors or medical staff fail to act promptly or correctly, this disease can progress to a more advanced stage, reducing treatment options and lowering a patient’s chances of recovery. In such cases, the law may allow the injured patient to pursue a medical malpractice claim.
What can be done?
One common error involves misreading or ignoring signs on a mammogram or other imaging test. Radiologists and physicians are trained to identify abnormalities, but when they overlook or misinterpret a mass or irregularity, vital time can be lost. Other errors include failing to order necessary follow-up tests, misdiagnosing the condition as benign or not referring a patient to a specialist. Even a delay of a few months can allow cancer to grow and spread, making treatment more invasive and less effective.
Another area of concern is poor communication between medical providers. In some cases, one doctor may notice a potential problem but fail to share it with the patient or with other providers. Lab results may not be reviewed in a timely manner, or the need for further testing may be downplayed or ignored. These breakdowns in communication can prevent patients from getting the urgent care they need.
When breast cancer advances due to a medical mistake, patients may be compelled to seek aggressive treatments like chemotherapy, radiation or mastectomy that might have been avoided with earlier intervention. The risk of cancer spreading to other parts of the body increases, and the prognosis may worsen significantly.
There is no doubt that the medical community has reason to be concerned about the consequences of overdiagnosis of breast cancer. But by approaching concerns too conservatively or otherwise making preventable mistakes, they can alter someone’s future for the far, far worse. Timely and accurate medical care can save lives.
Thankfully, when preventable mistakes occur, holding the responsible parties accountable can help to facilitate justice and financial support for those harmed.