When it comes to treating any ailment, a correct and timely diagnosis may be the most crucial step for a positive outcome. Any delay or incorrect diagnosis can have disastrous effects for patients and families. Although Kentucky residents have access to some of the most advanced healthcare technology in the world, this technology is basically useless if a proper diagnosis is not made. A woman in another state filed a claim citing medical malpractice after a surgeon allegedly removed an organ by mistake.
According to the lawsuit, the woman was in a car accident and underwent a procedure to fuse bones in her lower back. The lawsuit claimed that a surgeon mistook the woman’s kidney for a tumor and removed it. Allegedly, the surgeon who removed the kidney was not performing the actual surgery and was only supposed to cut the woman open.
The plaintiff claimed she never had a say in the matter and the kidney was removed without her knowledge or consent. Reportedly, the department of health also filed a complaint against the same surgeon. The lawsuit was recently settled for an undisclosed amount, according to reports.
Doctors and surgeons across the United States are required to undergo years of academic and on-the-job training in order to legally treat patients. Any health care professional can make a mistake regardless of training or experience. Those in Kentucky who have suffered injury or the loss of a loved one due to medical malpractice can take action by seeking the services of a legal representative. A successful claim could result in compensation to help families cope with this tragic experience.