It is beyond troubling to know that misdiagnoses are still such a common threat,
despite our latest medical advances.
It is another reminder that nothing can substitute for the combination of a
well-informed doctor, an engaged patient and enough time to ask all the right
questions and review all possible signs and symptoms to get the right diagnosis.
But what else can we do to fix the problem?
Policy makers must motivate hospitals to study the issue without the fear of
“gotcha” lawsuits. Patients should be encouraged to know their personal and
family medical history. It is good to see many employers and health plans now
offering expert second opinions as a free employee benefit. Steps like these are
critical.
I ? Word Understanding
Beyond troubling ? upsetting / worrying
Misdiagnosis ? an incorrect conclusion about a disease or problem
“Gotcha” lawsuits ? a faked or exaggerated claim
II ? Have Your Say
1. Choosing the right doctor is a very important decision. Here are
some things we need to consider:
? Education
? Referral
? Doctor’s record
? Hospital
2. A second opinion is a visit to a physician other than the one a patient
has previously been seeing in order to get a differing point-of-view.
199 The Terrible Effects of Misdiagnoses
