Legal Question in Medical Malpractice in California

ER bias and failed diagnosis

I am a woman with bad heart. I have had in Mar. & June 2 angioplasties & a heart attack. In early Oct., I got angina. I went to the ER, & told to check with the county facility since I didn't have any insurance. I was unable to go though, because pain got worse, & I couldn't go anywhere. In Oct. & Nov., I went to the closest ER 2 times. The 1st time I went home. On the 2nd trip, I awoke at 2 AM, & in pain. I went to the hospital with more pain. The Dr. saw me in pain, but he did NOT give me any painkillers. When the worst of the pain had occurred, he injected a tranquilizer, Ativan, & sent me home with a tranquilizer. He did NOT test my blood AFTER my attack--did NOTHING. In addition, I gave a complete & LUCID history of my past heart problems. Dec. 6, I was in the ER, with pain. On 1 day alone, I took 15 nitro. This time, I went to different ER because I did not want to end up with the same Dr. I was admitted, & saw a cardiologist & underwent another angioplasty. The Dr. told me I had a 100% occlusion, & that there was arterial & heart muscle damage & scar tissue. I am now on blood thinners for life with permanent heart damage. Can I sue the Dr. who ignored my pain & symptoms, sending me home with a tranquilizer?


Asked on 12/12/99, 11:57 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert E. Drescher Law Offices of Robert E. Drescher

Re: ER bias and failed diagnosis

It is quite possible you may have a case against many of the doctors for negligence. However, more information is needed to fully evaluate your case. I would need to see the admitting report for each of the ER's which failed to take care of you, as well as a review of your medical history to make sure that their failure caused the problem you now face. Because, if they can show you would be suffering from the condition you now suffer from now regardless of what actions they took, then your damages may be eliminated.

Please feel free to e-mail me (or call me at (661) 260-1149)with the location of the incident (Los Angeles, etc.)and any additional questions you may have.

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Answered on 12/14/99, 9:56 am
Keith Knochel Law Offices of Keith Knochel

Re: ER bias and failed diagnosis

Please contact The Law Offices of Keith Knochel for a telephone consultation. (800) 677-1010. Or email us at [email protected]. www.mohavebar.com

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Answered on 12/14/99, 11:34 am


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