Medical errors: 12 million patients misdiagnosed each year http://b4in.org/fNCn

Originally shared by Before It's News

Medical errors: 12 million patients misdiagnosed each year http://b4in.org/fNCn

In America, the average person relies on his or her physician to diagnose and treat medical conditions and health problems when symptoms arise. This conventional approach sends millions of people to emergency rooms, doctor offices and clinics across the country – every year. Sadly, at the same time, it’s understood that conventionally-trained physicians can give a wrong diagnosis about the health status of a patient – often causing a tremendous amount of unwanted side effects.

However, a study published in BMJ Quality and Safety confirms that it also happens in outpatient settings, such as doctor offices and clinics. In fact, the study suggests that 1 in 20 people who visit doctors each year – approximately 12 million – are misdiagnosed. Many receive treatment for non-existent conditions, whereas others fail to learn of serious illnesses in a timely way.

Medical errors can cause serious harm to patients

Doctors often blame misdiagnosis on symptoms that are vague and associated with many different types of conditions. Other medical errors – which are attributed to faulty diagnostic tests and human error – can even be deadly.

The truth is there is no excuse for a misdiagnosed patient. One wrong diagnosis can create an overwhelming emotional burden for both the patient and his or her family, not to mention produce tremendous physical and financial consequences.

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