Physician's Failure to Communicate Test Results

Doctors have a responsibility to their patients to protect their health. This includes accurate diagnosis of illnesses, proper treatment and protecting them from harm during treatment. A basic duty in the cycle of care provided by doctors is communicating with their patients. When a physician or medical facility fails to communicate test results to a patient, they could delay treatment and put their patient’s health and life at risk.

“Duty of care” for doctors includes diagnosis and testing. Doctors may order a variety of tests for a patient to identify the cause of symptoms. The patient may not be aware of exactly what tests were ordered – they depend on their doctor to perform the needed tests, evaluate the results and communicate the results. When a physician fails to follow through with delivering test results and initiating the next step of treatment, they may be liable for injuries.

Injuries Resulting from Poor Doctor Communication

Most serious illnesses need early detection to begin treatment to improve the prognosis for the patient. Progressive diseases like cancer can be treatable in the early stages. When tests are ordered and the results are not shared with the patient, it can have tragic results. Treatment can be delayed for months, even years, without the patient knowing they have a disease. Injuries can include decreased health, a need for more invasive treatments and even death.

The impact of poor communication by a doctor’s office of important test results can change your life. If this has happened to you or a family member, resulting in a dangerous progression of a health condition or injury, contact our team at Race Law Firm. We offer free legal assessments at our office in Atlanta. We can advise you on your options. You may be eligible to seek compensation for injuries caused by your doctor’s failure to communicate test results.