Imagine feeling sicker than ever, only to be sent home from a doctor with a misdiagnosed condition. Unfortunately, this frightening scenario is all too common, and even well-known to many— such as Thomas Eric Duncan, who died after he was misdiagnosed with sinusitis when in fact he had Ebola. However, a new report by the Institute of Medicine reveals that this situation is just one of the many diagnostic mistakes that doctors make.
When it comes to medical care, it’s crucial to understand that much like Thomas Eric Duncan’s case, “Most people will experience at least one wrong or delayed diagnosis at some point in their lives, a blind spot in modern medicine that can have devastating consequences,” the report states. For instance, one woman went to the emergency room with heart attack symptoms only to be misdiagnosed with acid reflux. Days later, she returned with severe heart damage. It’s critical to recognize that doctors and hospitals aren’t perfect, with an IOM report from 1999 disclosing that between 44,000 and 98,000 people die every year from preventable medical mistakes in hospitals. Nevertheless, to minimize the risk of misdiagnoses, there are steps everyone can take to protect themselves.
Slow things down
When it comes down to medical appointments, most patients feel rushed— but it’s essential to ensure you have a thorough, clear conversation with your doctor. Be transparent in expressing your symptoms and circumstances, then ask questions to better understand their thinking process for your diagnosis, and take detailed notes to help guide you in the future.
Request records
Always follow up your doctor visit by requesting your health records. Having all your information on hand allows you to actively stay informed and share it with any additional healthcare providers without relying on memory alone. You will be better prepared for appointments with new doctors too since the information in your records may prompt more questions.
Seek a second opinion
If your symptoms persist even after diagnosis and treatment, don’t hesitate to consult another physician. A second or even third opinion could be critical in identifying the legitimate health issue and ensuring you receive the appropriate treatment. If your original doctor mistakenly diagnosed you, notify them so that they can learn from their mistakes and improve patient care.
Explore technology options
Technological advancements can benefit you by providing access to resources like VisualDx, an innovative system designed to help doctors match symptoms to a visual library of possible diagnoses. Ask your doctor if they utilize this system or any other new-age tools that could aid them in better understanding your health concerns.
Bring a personal advocate
It can be challenging to think straight, ask the right questions, and remember critical details during a doctor’s appointment, especially when you are in pain or feeling unwell. Enlisting a trusted friend or family member as a second pair of eyes and ears can make a world of difference in ensuring your medical concerns are adequately addressed, improving the chances of an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Educate yourself
One of the best ways to ensure accurate diagnostic results is by taking control of your health and understanding your body’s unique needs and potential health issues. Research your family’s medical history, educate yourself about common health conditions that impact individuals who share your demographics, and be aware of any medications you are taking, as well as their potential side effects. A well-informed patient enables better communication with their doctor, leading to more accurate diagnoses and improved medical care.
Choose your doctor wisely
Lastly, take some time to select a general physician that you trust and feel comfortable with. Look for doctors who prioritize listening to their patients, provide personalized care, and are updated with new diagnostic methods. An experienced, caring doctor can make all the difference in correctly diagnosing your medical issue, ultimately ensuring better and more effective treatment.
No one wants to experience a misdiagnosed illness; it can be both dangerous and life-threatening. By taking these preventative measures, you may more effectively avoid diagnostic error, giving yourself a better chance at survival should you encounter a serious illness.
