Did your child’s pediatrician improperly diagnose their brain injury?

It’s a given that most kids will experience some type of illness at least once during their childhood. While there’s a strong likelihood that their pediatrician will be able to reach an adequate diagnosis as to what ails them, things aren’t always as straightforward as they seem.

This is particularly true with head injuries. What may seem like nothing more than a “bump” on a child’s head could be a sign of a serious injury.

Why do pediatricians end up being sued for malpractice?

A study recently published by The Doctors Company (TDC) highlighted how most parents who end up filing medical malpractice lawsuits against their childrens’ doctors do so after they suffer brain injuries.

The authors compiled data that at least 48% of all malpractice lawsuits filed center around a child a year or younger. At least 36% of claims involving 1-year-old kids center around brain injuries. Another 15% of those brain injury lawsuits include children between the age of two and 12. Another 11% or more include teens suffering brain injuries.

Infants and children with special needs are particularly vulnerable to suffering brain injuries. The researchers discovered that this is likely the case because of their inability to effectively communicate with doctors to convey what they’re feeling.

Why parents need to hold their pediatrician liable for malpractice

A misdiagnosis can significantly change your child’s quality of life and prospects for the future, and specialty care for brain injuries can be costly. Holding a doctor who improperly diagnosed your child liable for their mistakes is only appropriate. An attorney can help you learn more and guide you through the next steps in the process.