You take the time to see your doctor, hoping to finally find relief for persistent symptoms. Instead, they brush off your concerns as mere complaints or leave you with even more questions. Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common for women, with serious consequences for their health and well-being.
Why is misdiagnosis so common among women?
Misdiagnosis occurs when a healthcare professional mistakenly identifies a patient’s condition. It is a failure to provide the standard of care that patients are entitled to.
Numerous studies reveal a disturbing issue when it comes to delivering women the care they need. For instance, heart attacks are twice as likely to be misdiagnosed in women, while cancer is often detected 2.5 years later in women than in men.
Numerous factors contribute to why this issue is so prevalent, but dated prejudices and a lack of knowledge often come up.
Gender bias, which dates to ancient Greece, still lingers, leading to inadequate treatment. Apart from blaming hormones or alleging hysteria, health care providers occasionally ignore women’s concerns.
Additionally, many health issues are unique to women or may manifest differently compared to men.
The consequences of misdiagnosis
Delays in diagnosis can be detrimental, prolonging suffering and allowing health complications to develop. Misdiagnosis of conditions such as cancer or stroke can lead to permanent damage or even death. Additionally, it can result in unnecessary tests and treatments, causing financial strain.
Cases of misdiagnosis that lead to harm or injury to the patient may constitute medical malpractice. In 2017, a woman from Harlem went to court after having had to undergo surgery to remove her left breast and other procedures due to a cancer misdiagnosis. Unfortunately, her case is just one of many.
If you believe you have suffered damages due to a misdiagnosis, consider talking to a medical malpractice attorney to know what steps you can take.
Standing up for your health
Everyone has unique health needs and medical histories. Keeping your health provider informed can help them provide you with a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Additionally, given the risk of misdiagnosis, it becomes even more crucial to speak up when something does not feel right. Document your symptoms, ask questions and seek a second or even third opinion if necessary.
Remember, your health matters. Taking control of your health can make all the difference.