Q: Can I sue multiple hospitals for negligence in Illinois for failing to diagnose septic arthritis?
I am considering suing multiple hospitals for medical malpractice or negligence due to a failure to diagnose septic arthritis. From October to December, several doctors overlooked my blood test results and complaints. After visiting the fifth hospital, where I received an aspiration, the correct diagnosis was made. I have since been referred to an orthopedic surgeon by my primary care physician to discuss the results of a bone deformity shown in the X-rays.
A: By all means, consult medical malpractice attorneys. Much will depend upon your present physician's ability to testify as to the ADDITIONAL harm that you sustained as a result of your delayed diagnosis. If the delay in your diagnosis resulted in no additional harm ( beyond your continuing to experience your discomfort), the case is probably not viable. That means that even though you would win, it may cost you more to win than any reasonable jury would award you. Again, it is best that you discuss the specific details with a medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible. Good luck.
Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer
A: You could, but the analysis would be fact-specific, determining the individual role of each medical provider. It will also depend on what damages you suffered as a result of the failure to identify/diagnosis in that period between October and December, which is not a large window of time. When you consult with attorneys, they could outline this in further detail. Good luck
A: Addendum - I see that you mention five hospitals. Keep in mind that in most states, public hospitals could mean notice of claim requirements. These are additional very short deadlines involved with public agencies or facilities. If that might be relevant in your matter (where all the facilities are not private), a local attorney should be able to advise whether immediate steps are needed in terms of filing notices of claims. Good luck
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