A heart attack (also known as a myocardial infarction) is a serious, life-threatening event that requires immediate medical attention. When a doctor fails to diagnose a heart attack—or diagnoses it too late—this delay can lead to permanent heart damage or even loss of life. In Oregon and other states, if this failure to diagnose is due to a healthcare provider’s negligence or deviation from the accepted standard of care, it may constitute medical malpractice.
The Standard of Care for Suspected Heart Attacks
If a patient arrives with chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, or other heart attack symptoms, a reasonably competent doctor should:
• Take a detailed medical history, including family history and risk factors (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, etc.).
• Conduct a physical examination to check heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs.
• Order diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), cardiac enzymes (troponin levels), or additional imaging tests to confirm or rule out a heart attack.
When these steps are skipped, performed incorrectly, or misinterpreted, it can result in a misdiagnosis or a dangerous delay in treatment.
Recognizing Medical Malpractice
Not every missed diagnosis automatically qualifies as malpractice. To prove medical negligence, you must typically show:
1. Duty of Care – The doctor owed you care (e.g., you were officially their patient).
2. Breach of Standard of Care – The doctor failed to act in a manner consistent with what another reasonably competent physician would do.
3. Causation – This breach led directly to your injury or worsened condition.
4. Damages – You suffered harm, such as additional medical bills, lost wages, or significant pain and suffering.
If a doctor dismissed key symptoms, did not follow accepted cardiac protocols, or misread an ECG, leading to a delayed heart attack diagnosis, you might have a valid medical malpractice claim.
Why Detailed Legal Guidance Matters
Medical malpractice cases—especially those involving heart attacks—can be complex, requiring expert witnessesand detailed medical reviews. A knowledgeable plaintiff’s med mal attorney can:
• Investigate medical records and diagnostic tests
• Consult with medical experts to evaluate whether negligence occurred
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
• Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Taking the Next Step
If you believe your heart attack was misdiagnosed or diagnosed too late, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Contact an experienced Oregon medical malpractice lawyer as soon as possible to protect your legal rights and explore your options for recovery.
