Can I Sue if a Misread X-Ray or MRI Leads to Harm in Georgia?
X-rays and MRIs are crucial for catching illnesses and injuries early, ensuring patients get the right treatment on time. But what happens if an X-ray or MRI is misread? Failing to correctly read the findings of an X-ray or MRI can lead to undiagnosed illnesses or injuries, delayed treatment, worsening conditions, or even life-threatening situations. In Georgia, if such an error occurred due to the negligence of a medical professional, you may have the right to pursue a medical malpractice claim.
When Do Doctors Order X-Rays or MRIs?
Often, doctors order imaging tests when they suspect an illness or injury that cannot be confirmed by a physical examination alone. For example, if a doctor suspects a broken bone, arthritis, or a chest infection, they may order an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.
On the other hand, when the doctor needs more detailed images, they may order an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). For instance, if a patient is exhibiting symptoms of a brain condition, a spinal injury, a torn ligament, or a tumor, a doctor may order an MRI to obtain a detailed view of soft tissues, organs, nerves, or other structures.
X-rays and MRIs are crucial for helping doctors confirm a diagnosis and decide on the appropriate treatment. Because crucial medical decisions depend on X-ray and MRI readings, a misinterpreted scan can have serious consequences.
When Does a Misread Scan Become Malpractice?
Not all instances where a doctor misreads a scan constitute malpractice. In Georgia, the following elements must be established to have a valid malpractice case:
- The doctor or radiologist owed you a legal duty of care
- They failed to meet the accepted medical standard
- Their mistake directly caused harm
- You suffered real damages like extra medical expenses, lost wages, permanent injury, or pain and suffering
Demonstrating that a doctor failed to meet the accepted medical standard and caused you harm entails showing that they failed to do what another competent doctor would have done under similar circumstances.
Examples of scenarios when a missed X-ray or MRI may amount to malpractice include:
- An X-ray shows signs of an infection or internal bleeding, but the signs are missed. The delay leads to the condition worsening into a life-threatening emergency
- An MRI shows a tumor, but it is misread as normal, leading to the cancer progressing to a more advanced stage that requires extensive treatment and/or leads to death.
Proving Your Case
To succeed in your case, you generally need:
- Expert testimony. A qualified medical expert must explain how the doctor’s actions fell below the accepted standard of care.
- Your medical records.
- Proof that the misreading directly caused you harm; for example, a new injury or illness, or worsening of your condition.
What To Do After a Misread Scan Causes Harm
If you believe a misread X-ray or MRI caused you harm:
- Get copies of your medical records and scans
- Seek a second opinion
- Document everything
- Contact a medical malpractice lawyer
These cases can be complex, which is why it’s vital to work with an attorney.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you believe a negligent doctor misread your X-ray or MRI scan and caused you harm, contact our skilled Atlanta medical malpractice attorney at Carroll Law Firm for a case evaluation.
