The term “cancer” instills fear in many. The importance of early detection cannot be overstated, as certain cancers are treatable if caught early. Our Charleston medical malpractice lawyers have extensive experience handling cancer misdiagnosis cases and know how catastrophic such delays in diagnosis or a missed diagnosis can be.
Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC vigorously defends the rights of patients affected by medical malpractice in Charleston, West Virginia. Our firm is uniquely equipped to provide our clients with a significant advantage in securing compensation.
Your health and well-being are often placed in the hands of medical professionals, whom you trust to meet a specific standard of care in treating your health issues. If you have suffered harm due to a medical provider’s failure to meet this standard, contact our law firm in Charleston, WV, at (304) 720-1000 for a complimentary consultation.
How Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC Can Help if You’re the Victim of a Cancer Misdiagnosis in Charleston, WV
With advanced diagnostic tools and tests now available, medical professionals have greater capabilities to detect cancer early. Yet, when these tools are underutilized or test results are incorrectly interpreted, patients face dire repercussions.
Our Charleston medical malpractice attorneys have witnessed firsthand the profound effects a cancer misdiagnosis can have on both the physical and emotional health of patients. Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC is dedicated to securing financial restitution for those affected by such medical oversights.
When you choose our legal services following a cancer misdiagnosis in Charleston, WV, we will:
- Identify the causes of the misdiagnosis and determine liability
- Conduct a comprehensive examination of your medical history and pertinent documents
- Engage with leading medical experts and specialists to strengthen your case
- Advocate for a just settlement on your behalf
- Provide legal representation in court when required
Medical malpractice demands accountability. Physical distress from a misdiagnosis is burdensome enough without the added strain of its financial implications.
If you suspect negligence from your doctor or healthcare provider in your cancer care, consult our skilled Charleston personal injury lawyers. We’re prepared to rigorously assess your case and, if negligence is found, fight zealously for your rightful compensation.
What Mistakes Can Lead to a Cancer Misdiagnosis?
There are primarily two kinds of cancer misdiagnoses: false positives and false negatives. False negatives pose a greater danger as they prevent the patient from receiving necessary treatment for an existing condition. A study by Johns Hopkins found that around 10% of individuals displaying cancer symptoms are incorrectly diagnosed.
Not every case of cancer misdiagnosis qualifies as malpractice. Even with advanced technology, certain cancers, like those of the brain and ovaries, may not be detected until they have progressed to later stages.
A negligent cancer misdiagnosis happens when a healthcare provider does not apply the requisite skill and care needed to accurately identify and treat cancer.
Some errors that could result in a cancer misdiagnosis include a failure to:
- Review the patient’s medical history thoroughly
- Order diagnostic tests that could detect cancer
- Accurately read cancer screening test results
- Evaluate the patient’s symptoms carefully
- Refer the patient to a specialist for further assessment and care
If you believe you’ve suffered due to a cancer misdiagnosis in Charleston, Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC offers a free consultation. We will undertake a detailed investigation of your case and consult medical professionals. Should we determine negligence led to the misdiagnosis, we are prepared to vigorously pursue full compensation.
How Long Do I Have To Sue for a Negligent Cancer Misdiagnosis in West Virginia?
If your healthcare providers have negligently failed to diagnose your cancer, you have legal rights. Nonetheless, there’s a limited window to act on these rights.
In West Virginia, the statute of limitations typically allows you two years from the date of the negligent action to initiate a medical malpractice lawsuit. Similarly, if a loved one has passed away due to a negligent cancer misdiagnosis, you’re granted two years from the date of their passing to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
There are a few exceptions to this rule, underscoring the importance of consulting an experienced medical malpractice lawyer in Charleston without delay. Missing this deadline could permanently prevent you from seeking compensation.
As time progresses, the risk of losing or destroying vital evidence increases. The memories of witnesses may also diminish over time, potentially weakening your case.
Talk To an Experienced Charleston Cancer Misdiagnosis Attorney Today
Detecting cancer at the earliest opportunity is critical and can dramatically affect survival rates. Early identification allows your healthcare team to undertake aggressive treatment, which could considerably increase your chances of a positive outcome.
If you suspect that you have been subject to a cancer misdiagnosis or a delay in diagnosis in Charleston, WV, you’re faced with crucial choices. Initially, securing immediate medical attention is essential to limit any further damage. It’s also important to consult a proficient medical malpractice lawyer to understand your legal rights and the means to enforce them.
Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC is ready to offer a free case evaluation. During this consultation, we’ll examine the specifics of your situation, analyze your medical documents, and provide a candid and direct opinion of your chances. If our evaluation finds that negligence contributed to the misdiagnosis, we’ll tailor a legal approach designed to meet your unique requirements.
Call today to get started.
