How can I address delayed communication from my mother's doctor's office regarding her cancer gene test results in NJ?

Question

My mother was diagnosed with rectal cancer and underwent chemo, radiation, and surgery. Blood was drawn for a gene test, but a month later, we were informed that the results wouldn't be released because the office forgot to have her sign a responsibility-for-payment form. After she signed, we received a notification that the test was positive, leading us to schedule an appointment. During the appointment, which was the first time the doctor reviewed the results, my mother was sent for a scan that revealed a 7 cm tumor on her liver. This process took two months, and my mother is now stage 4, in a wheelchair, and inoperable. The doctor's office failed to promptly notify us of test results. How can I address the delayed communication and seek accountability?

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

You may have grounds to pursue a complaint or even legal action against your mother’s doctor’s office for the delayed communication of her test results, which potentially led to her condition worsening. The failure to promptly notify you of the test results and the delay in receiving treatment could be seen as a breach of the standard of care. This delay may have prevented timely intervention, which could have made a difference in her treatment options. 
 
Start by documenting all communication with the doctor’s office, including the missed test results, the responsibility-for-payment form issue, and the timeline of events. If possible, gather any medical records showing the delay and how it may have impacted your mother’s prognosis. This will help establish a timeline and show how the office’s failure to act promptly contributed to the worsening of her condition. 
 
You should file a formal complaint with the office or the state medical board, as well as seek legal counsel to explore your options for holding the doctor’s office accountable. A lawyer can help assess whether there was negligence and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your mother’s suffering. It’s important to act quickly to ensure that her case is properly addressed.

Q: How can I address delayed communication from my mother's doctor's office regarding her cancer gene test results in NJ?