Abdominal pain can have a variety of causes, but issues such as a fever or an inability to move might lead an Arizona resident to seek prompt assistance from a medical provider. Obtaining radiology tests to confirm the suspicion of a hernia can be important, but unfortunately, experts indicate that these tests can often fall short in providing an accurate diagnosis. There are some helpful tips for obtaining better outcomes when imaging is necessary in such situations.
Because occult hernias are missed in more than 90 percent of CT scans and in 67 percent of MRIs, it is important for physicians to communicate their suspicions to radiology professionals. This provides a better framework for radiologists as they attempt to confirm a diagnosis. Patients’ input can also be helpful as they show the location of their pain. Being as specific as possible about symptoms and problems can ensure that the focus is properly placed. In cases of negative results, an MRI might be needed, but these costly studies can meet with rejection from insurance providers. A health care provider may need to be particularly precise to ensure that such tests are approved.
Because a failure to diagnose an occult hernia can be difficult, a missed diagnosis does not necessarily constitute medical malpractice. The actions taken by a provider in further investigating one’s symptoms, however, might provide substance for a malpractice case in some instances. For example, an individual who deals with irreversible damage because of a provider’s failure to continue to seek answers might consider legal action.
A lawyer representing a patient in a missed diagnosis case might need to obtain relevant medical records before determining how to proceed. Legal counsel might consult medical experts to determine how a client’s treatment deviated from accepted standards and practices.