The moment one reaches out to a healthcare facility and places their trust in its technology and doctors, they expect their conditions and diagnosis to be accurate and handled professionally. Laboratory tests are behind the bulk of diagnoses produced, and when they’re incorrectly processed and read, this can lead to a cascading series of issues for both the patient and their family. And unfortunately, laboratory errors are painfully common.
An erroneous biopsy or misinterpreted blood test can lead to a number of problems, like pointless interventions, delayed treatment, and even a life-changing diagnosis, concealing the actual underlying problem and generating multiple others. That’s why before we dive deeper into the matter, we’re taking a moment to remind you that if you or someone close has been misdiagnosed or has your laboratory tests mismanaged, the best course of action would be to reach out to solicitors specialising in medical negligence, with expertise in laboratory errors and misdiagnoses. They can assess your case, figure out if you should claim against the healthcare facility, and weigh your chances at winning, and guide you through all the legal maze that would otherwise be a little intimidating for someone who lacks experience in the field. The best part to those working under the “No Win No Fee” standard is that they’ll evaluate your case pro bono and only take a commission if they subsequently win your case. That being said, let’s learn more about what laboratory errors are and what you can do in the event of such an unfortunate incident.
How lab errors take place
You’re promised accurate results, but the harsh reality is that errors can arise at any stage of the testing process. This can happen due to reasons like an understaffed facility that overworks existing employees, poorly calibrated technological equipment, improper handling of samples, interference & contamination, and more. Experts usually divide these errors into three main categories.
There are errors that begin even before your sample’s assessment – think of mislabelled blood containers, incorrect patient details, or improper storage and transport of specimens. Since these steps rely heavily on humans, the risk of mistakes is higher than many expect.
Most mistakes actually happen before the sample is even analysed. Think of things like mislabelled blood tubes, wrong patient details, improper storage and transport. These steps rely heavily on humans, which makes the risk of mistakes bigger than many may expect. Now, there’s the real test conclude din laboratories, when your sample reaches the lab, and technology and machines get involved. Errors can still happen due to problems like a device that stopped working properly or hasn’t been audited, reagents used improperly, or faulty automated systems that fail to interpret the sample correctly.
Suppose these steps are concluded successfully, an error can still occur despite all these. Results can be reported incorrectly, which can throw off the entire diagnosis and prevent you from receiving the correct diagnosis and thus the correct, needed treatment. These “behind-the-scenes” errors can significantly affect your treatment plan if they fly under the radar for too long.
What’s the risk
Laboratory mistakes affect people in very real ways. Mislabel a biopsy and someone can undergo a surgery they don’t need if they don’t double-check the results. A wrong blood test can delay a vital treatment, and a misinterpreted scan can hide the real problem while creating a new one. It’s not uncommon to come across patients who have been taking a treatment for a condition they don’t even have, let alone treat the real one – and that exposes them to side effects and risks that could’ve been avoided entirely.
Such situations can escalate quickly. If it takes a long time to receive a diagnosis, or receive the secondary one, your condition might worsen, making it harder to treat later on. There’s also the risk of a false positive result which can add to your stress, not to mention that you’ll need additional testing, and perhaps go through some invasive procedures.
What to do if you suspect a lab error or are actually dealing with one
Assuming you or a loved one suspect a laboratory error behind your diagnosis, then you should take immediate action. Sometimes, it pays to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider to improve the chances of knowing what happened. Most of the time, it’s best to consult another doctor to get a second opinion, or repeat testing in another facility altogether. In many cases, further investigation can help clarify whether your diagnosis – or lack of it – stems from a laboratory mistake.
If you’re the victim of negligence and struggling with all the pain, the consequences of misdiagnosis, or even the use of unnecessary treatment, it’s worth exploring your legal options. There are personal injury solicitors who specialise in pathology and lab errors, and who evaluate such cases to figure out whether the one on the desk is valid, advise on whether the patient might claim against a healthcare facility, and guide claimants through the legal process. Lab errors are hard pills to swallow, but you’re not alone in this, that’s why you’re encouraged to contact such legal experts to better know where you’re standing.
This makes benefitting from professional legal support more accessible and straightforward, important when you’re already having a stressful time, when bills add up, and your patience runs short. Speaking of which – always keep medical bills within reach, because they’re primary sources of evidence in case you get to the point where you pursue a claim. Diagnoses from other doctors, prescriptions, and other types of supporting documents are also paramount. If the lab has failed to train employees properly, use well-maintained equipment, supervise staff – and anything that led to neglect and your consequential pain – the laboratory itself may be held liable.
