You want to be able to trust your doctor—and in most cases, you can! But if they are giving you diagnoses and treatments that don’t seem to identify or help your problem, you have a right to ask further questions. If you suspect your doctor of negligent behavior, learn what to do to advocate for yourself.
Seek a Second Opinion
You’re not bound to one doctor. If you disagree with your physician’s diagnosis, or if their recommended treatment isn’t helping, visit another doctor and ask for their opinion. Two sets of eyes are better than one when it comes to your health.
Document Your Experience
Start keeping a journal of your medical visits and treatments. How often do you visit your doctor? What do they have to say about your prognosis? How do you feel during the course of your treatment?
If you suspect that your doctor made a medical error, keeping a record complete with dates and times can come in handy later. You may be able to pinpoint when the error happened and when your condition started worsening.
Request Medical Records
Does something about your diagnosis or treatment sound off? Politely request copies of your medical records and keep them in a safe place. When you see a second doctor for another opinion, give them access to those records and ask them what they think. These records are helpful in allowing the second doctor to pick up on a detail that slipped through the cracks the first time.
Speak to a Lawyer
Before you decide to sue your doctor or hospital, get a legal expert’s opinion on your story. Many negligence and malpractice lawyers offer free consultations and will only decide to take your case if they see merit in it.
Provide your attorney with the evidence you’ve gathered, such as your journal and any medical records you’ve requested. They can explain how negligence differs from malpractice and provide valuable advice on how to move forward.
Remain Quiet About Your Case
If your attorney agrees that you have a valid case for medical negligence—or even malpractice—be careful about whom you discuss the case with. Avoid speaking directly to the doctor, hospital representatives, and the insurance company involved in the case. Direct all communications through your lawyer.
In the meantime, be careful about your social media habits during the litigation process. Don’t talk about your case online, as it could harm you in the courtroom.
These are the main things you can do if you suspect your doctor of negligence. Put your health first and seek another opinion—and if that negligence has harmed you further, seek legal assistance.
