In 2012, a man went to Glens Falls Hospital, which is located in Connecticut’s neighboring state of New York, with complaints of a headache, dizziness and difficulties standing. A CT scan was performed, but the undiagnosed stroke, visible because of a blocked brain blood vessel, was not reported by the radiologist to the staff in the emergency room. The ER physician diagnosed the man with a sinus infection and sent him home. The man suffered a major stroke seven weeks later. The former aerospace machinist can no longer work and requires lifetime care for his permanent disabilities.

A lawsuit alleging medical malpractice was filed claiming medical malpractice against the radiologist and his former radiology practice. The jury awarded the man $11.6 million after a 3.5-hour deliberation. The man said that his attorneys were his voice when the radiologist refused to accept responsibility for his disability.

The jury’s verdict can be appealed and the doctor, who now lives and practices in the state of Washington, did not comment on the verdict.

When a patient visits a hospital, he or she expects to receive the right diagnosis for what is ailing him or her. When there is a misdiagnosis, patients’ lives can be forever altered. A successful medical malpractice lawsuit can hold doctors, surgeons, other members of the medical staff and medical entities liable for the increased pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses and more that a patient suffers due to negligence. An experienced malpractice attorney can provide information on how you can seek compensation for medical negligence.

Source: The Post Star, “Local doctor, medical practice hit with $11.6 million verdict,” Don Lehman, Feb. 09, 2016