Pathologist Medical Malpractice: Get a Second Opinion

A recent article in the Wall Street Journal discusses the important role pathologists (doctors who study the origin and nature of disease) play in your diagnosis. As patients, we will never meet these doctors that investigate our tissue samples under the microscope, but pathology reports should be approached in the same manner you would approach any other diagnosis: with a healthy skepticism.

Pathologists complete an additional three to four years of training after medical school and specialize in diagnosing certain diseases, like cancer. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with cancer, it is well within your patient rights to ask for a pathologist specializing in your type of cancer to review your tissue biopsy.

Studies show there is a growing difference in how pathologists interpret what they see under the microscope. These differences can have a drastic effect on patients, including misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis.

Any delayed or misdiagnosis of a disease (like cancer) that leaves the patient permanently injured, could be medical malpractice. If you suspect this is the case for yourself or your loved one, call our office immediately. There is a statute of limitations on these types of cases, typically two years with some exceptions. Robert Messey, MD/JD and Gayle Sullivan, RN/JD will draw upon their medical and legal experience and initiate an investigation into your claim.