Healthcare Providers Fail to Diagnose Fatal Source of Constipation in Young Child
Every parent wants to do what is best for their child, but when it comes to medical issues, you may feel like you lack control. You may research and advocate for certain treatments, but ultimately, you rely on a physician’s expertise. If your provider insists that their approach is best, you can only hope that your child’s condition will improve. While some diagnoses can perplex even the most experienced physician, the circumstances behind some deaths are completely preventable with appropriate medical intervention.
Such is the case for Bobbi Oxford, whose vibrant spirit was quashed by chronic and severe constipation. Although Bobbi’s parents requested a CT scan, the ER physician insisted that it was unnecessary, instead only ordering an X-ray. The X-ray was normal, providing no answers behind Bobbi’s discomfort. Bobbi was sent home, experiencing intense discomfort for several months before succumbing to his illness. Following Bobbi’s passing, the medical examiner reviewed Bobbi’s X-ray at his initial ER visit and immediately diagnosed the cause of death. Had this young child’s physicians performed their due diligence, Bobbi Oxford’s story would be one of joy, not tragedy.
If someone you know has experienced similar negligence at the hands of a medical professional, our wrongful death attorneys in South Carolina are here to help. By seeking compensation from the wrongful party, you represent your family’s interests while protecting others from experiencing similar grief.
What Counts as a Medical Misdiagnosis?
A medical misdiagnosis occurs when a medical professional fails to diagnose a patient in a reasonable amount of time. Any of the following circumstances can lead to a misdiagnosis:
- Failing to recognize the presence of symptoms in relation to a serious medical condition
- Failing to take an accurate or complete medical history
- Failing to take the patient’s risk factors into account
- Failing to order the correct laboratory tests or medical imaging to diagnose a condition
- Misinterpreting or misreading test results
When Medical Malpractice Leads to Wrongful Death
Not all medical conditions can be diagnosed early, with some cancers only being detectable when they have progressed to a certain level. In some cases, symptoms may not appear until it is too late. This was certainly not the case for Bobbi Oxford, who had a treatable condition, but was seen by providers who overlooked the telltale signs of a more serious condition.
When medical negligence takes the life of someone prematurely, our legal team is committed to helping you pursue justice. Under South Carolina law, you only have three years to file a wrongful death claim. However, in certain circumstances, the timeline can be extended. Even if you believe that you have missed the statute of limitations, you should speak with a wrongful death attorney. An attorney can review your case to determine if any exceptions apply, allowing you to still seek legal recourse.
Wrongful Death Lawyers Serving South Carolina
A child’s passing wears forever on the hearts of loved ones, never allowing them to ever feel whole again. If you have suffered the death of a child, the provider’s oversight should be brought to light. If you would like to discuss your matter, the legal team at Parham Smith & Archenhold, LLC, is ready to assist you. While no amount of money can bring your child back, taking legal action can ensure that other families will not be harmed by the provider.
To schedule your free case review with one of our South Carolina wrongful death attorneys, we can be reached online or by calling (864) 432-1796 today.