What actions can I take if a doctor does not take my complaints seriously and the diagnosis is incorrect?
August 16, 2022 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Jenny Richter
Dear Medical Law Attorney,
I am reaching out to you as I am in need of advice and support in a situation that is causing me a lot of uncertainty. My name is Selma Fischer and for some time now I have been suffering from recurring health issues for which my general practitioner has not been able to provide a clear diagnosis. Despite explaining my symptoms in detail, I feel that he is not taking my complaints seriously and may have made the wrong diagnosis.
I am very worried about my health and am wondering what steps I can take to ensure that my complaints are taken seriously and the correct diagnosis is made. I feel abandoned in my current situation and do not know how to proceed. I want to ensure that my health is not further jeopardized and that I receive appropriate medical treatment.
Could you please outline specifically what legal steps I can take if I suspect that my doctor is not adequately addressing my complaints and has made a wrong diagnosis? Are there ways to protect my rights as a patient and ensure that I receive the best possible medical care? I would be grateful for any advice and support, as my health is very important to me.
Thank you in advance for your help and guidance.
Sincerely,
Selma Fischer
Dear Mrs. Fischer,
I thank you for your trust and for reaching out to me with your concerns. It is understandable that you feel worried and abandoned when your health issues are not taken seriously and you have doubts about the diagnosis given to you. In such situations, it is important that you know your rights as a patient and understand what legal steps you can take to ensure that your health is not further endangered.
First and foremost, it is important that you speak with your doctor and express your concerns regarding the diagnosis given and your symptoms in detail. There may be misunderstandings or further tests needed to make the correct diagnosis. If your doctor does not address your concerns or you still feel like you are not being taken seriously, you can seek a second opinion from another doctor.
Furthermore, as a patient, you have the right to comprehensive information and education about your treatment and the associated risks. If you feel like important information is being withheld from you or you are not being adequately informed about your treatment options, you can clarify this with your treating doctor and potentially file a complaint with the relevant medical board.
If you have serious concerns that a wrong diagnosis or inadequate medical care could harm you, you may also consider taking legal action. In this case, it is advisable to consult with a specialized attorney in medical law who can advise and support you comprehensively. Possible legal steps could include initiating a compensation claim or obtaining an opinion from an independent medical expert.
Please note that the mentioned measures may vary depending on individual situations and it is important to seek expert advice. I am available to discuss your situation in more detail and help you enforce your rights as a patient.
Sincerely,
Jenny Richter
Attorney at Law specializing in Medical Law
