Misdiagnosis of Pregnancy-Related Conditions
Pregnant women undergo various tests at different points in their pregnancies to determine if babies are healthy and free from any types of diseases or disorders. Despite the administration of tests for Cystic Fibrosis, Down Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Spina Bifida, Sickle Cell Disease, and Preeclampsia and related medical conditions, misdiagnosis of these and other ailments may occur.
In some cases, the physician may fail to assess the parents’ and/or families’ medical histories; might fail to administer the appropriate test at the optimum gestational time; may dismiss or misinterpret prenatal screening results including ultrasounds; and could even provide an inaccurate expected time of arrival for the baby. Medical mistakes like these could mean the difference between raising a healthy child versus a child who may require medical intervention and therapies, as well as a lifetime of health challenges.
When the misdiagnosis of pregnancy-related conditions adversely affects a family, the family may have the right to file a claim for wrongful birth. Children with medical conditions that may have been disclosed through appropriate and required testing deserve to lead fruitful and happy lives. Unfortunately, children born with birth defects or genetic maladies may need costly medical care and interventions that could overwhelm any family dealing with the expenses and emotional turmoil.
In order to file a medical malpractice claim, proof that the physician engaged in negligence in failing to diagnose a medical condition or other ailment, or misinterpreted the results of prenatal testing, must be available. Parents must also prove that they may have terminated the pregnancy if the tests showed significant, potential health challenges for the child.
If your physician misdiagnosed a pregnancy-related condition that resulted in birth defects or genetic ailments for your child, contact our New Jersey medical malpractice lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP at 732-777-0100 or contact us online. We represent clients throughout New Jersey.
Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP has purposely remained small in size, because it is important to us that we get to know our clients and their needs. Larger NJ injury firms may churn out case after case, but that’s not how we operate. Partners Barry Eichen, William Crutchlow, and Daryl Zaslow have created a firm with the resources to handle complex litigation, and a team that takes your case personally.
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