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Pathology Malpractice

When a doctor suspects that a patient may have a serious illness or condition, they often request blood or tissue samples to be analyzed by a pathologist. These medical specialists use microscopes to examine cells and make critical diagnoses that guide treatment decisions. When pathologists make errors in interpreting these samples, the consequences for patients can be devastating. 

Pathology Malpractice Lawyers in New York 

If you or a loved one have suffered harm due to pathology malpractice in New York, the experienced medical malpractice attorneys at The Porter Law Group can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us at 833-PORTER9 or email info@porterlawteam.com to discuss your case.

What is Pathology Malpractice?

Pathology malpractice occurs when a pathologist fails to perform his duties with the expected standard of professional care, resulting in injury to patients. The harm may not be direct, but the work of a pathologist for medical diagnosis is crucial. Their negligence can be considered the proximate cause of these injuries and they could be held liable. 

While pathologists rarely interact directly with patients, their work behind the scenes is vital. They may examine Pap smears for signs of cervical cancer, biopsy samples to determine if a tumor is malignant, or blood tests to diagnose various diseases. When a pathologist misreads these samples or provides an incorrect diagnosis, serious harm can result.

For example:

  • If a pathologist misdiagnoses a cancerous tumor as benign, the cancer may spread unchecked until it becomes untreatable. 
  • If a pathologist mistakenly diagnoses a benign condition as cancer, it may lead to unnecessary surgeries, chemotherapy, and immense physical and emotional suffering. 
  • Mishandled or contaminated samples and mix-ups of patient results can also lead to medical errors.

(Pathologists and oncologists work in similar fields. However, pathologists also conduct analysis for diagnosing diseases other than cancer. For cases of oncology malpractice, click here.) 

Results of Pathology Malpractice

The effects of pathology malpractice can be life-altering or even fatal for patients: 

  • Undiagnosed illnesses can progress to advanced stages. 
  • Incorrect diagnosis, especially for cancer, can result in delayed treatment, diminished survival rates, and avoidable medical expenses. 
  • The emotional toll can also be immense, as patients may endure the trauma of an incorrect terminal diagnosis or miss the opportunity for timely intervention.

What Damages Are Victims of Pathology Malpractice Entitled to? 

If you've been harmed by pathology malpractice, you may be entitled to compensation for the following:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost income
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Wrongful death

However, these cases can be complex, especially in New York. Medical malpractice cases, including pathology malpractice, require testimony from medical experts to establish that the error amounted to negligence.

If the negligent pathologist who was responsible for your injuries and losses was employed by a hospital and operating without the requisite license from the New York State Department of Education (NYSDOE), you may have a claim of negligent hiring and supervision against the hospital. This may also be the case if the pathologist’s assistant did not meet the requirements for practice, or was guilty of unprofessional conduct, leading to your injuries. 

Medical malpractice cases are complex, especially in New York. You will need to navigate numerous documentary and filing requirements, be aware of the statute of limitations, and present clear and convincing evidence. This can be more difficult when you’re still undergoing treatment. 

Discuss Your Case with a New York Pathology Malpractice Attorney

At The Porter Law Group, our knowledgeable medical malpractice attorneys have the skills and resources to thoroughly investigate pathology errors and build strong cases for our clients. We have decades of experience in medical malpractice litigation, and a proven track record of fighting tirelessly to recover the maximum compensation for our clients.

You should not have to bear the burdens of a pathologist's negligence on your own. Let us put our experience to work for you and help you seek accountability and justice. Contact The Porter Law Group at 833-PORTER9 or via email at info@porterlawteam.com to arrange a free consultation with a dedicated New York pathology malpractice lawyer. We're here to help you through this difficult time and advocate for your rights.

Last Updated on July 3, 2024 by Eric C. Nordby
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