What is the misdiagnosis rate for Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s’ Disease is a disorder of the nervous system that impacts millions of Americans every year. Tragically, this disease can have lifelong repercussions. It is also notoriously difficult to diagnose. Unfortunately, a missed diagnosis can lead to needless pain and missed opportunities to treat this progressive disease. Different states – including Ohio – have different procedures in the event of a misdiagnosis. However, sadly, it appears that people with Parkinson’s’ are more likely to be misdiagnosed.

What is the misdiagnosis rate?

Unfortunately, the misdiagnosis rate is very high, and this can lead to charges of medical malpractice. According to a recent survey, as many as 1 in 4 people with Parkinsons’ Disease have been misdiagnosed. The people who were misdiagnosed had devastating and inappropriate treatment plans as a result:

• 48% were given treatment for the wrong condition
• 36% received medication
• 6% had an operation or procedure
• 6% had both medication and a procedure

These shockingly high numbers mean that people with Parkinson’s’ face very high odds of an inappropriate diagnosis, potentially leading to delayed treatment or injuries sustained as a result of the wrong diagnosis. This means that these people may be entitled to legal representation and compensation for their pain.

Early treatment for Parkinson’s’ is absolutely critical, as it can help to slow the onset of the disease and reduce painful symptoms. This is why it is so important that you contact an attorney if you have Parkinson’s’ and were misdiagnosed. Every case is different, and an attorney can walk you through the potential procedure of seeking compensations for any injuries you sustained – or pain you suffered – as a result of your misdiagnosis.