Advancements in technology continue to abound and act to open new options for communication in various areas of life. In the field of medicine, telehealth medical appointments are becoming more common and while the convenience may seem beneficial, studies raise questions about the safety and effectiveness of remote visits. Issues with telehealth treatment may carry unique concerns that could place individuals in North Carolina at risk of being subjected to medical negligence.
Telehealth concerns
Reports indicate that remote visits via telehealth options continue to prove common and that funding has been provided to many health care providers who offer such treatment paths. Unfortunately, recent studies highlight some possible issues with similar outlets, such as the possible presence of technical issues and issues with accurate information gathering. Technical issues during a telehealth visit could prove frustrating to deal with and may lead to a rushed process that can be misleading to patients.
Studies indicate that there may also be certain limitations that disrupt a health care provider’s ability to address vital information during telehealth visits. Addressing health issues via smartphone or computer might not be the same as doing so in person and studies indicate that such issues could increase the risks of diagnostic errors. An inaccurate or incomplete diagnosis could lead to an improper path of care that either does little to treat a condition or runs the risk of leading to deeper medical concerns.
Medical negligence
Regardless of how it happens, those who are subjected to medical negligence of any form could suffer severe or even permanent harm in the process. Individuals in North Carolina who face a similar situation may be left in search of answers about their available legal avenues, and they could choose to consult with an attorney for advice on the next steps to take. An attorney can address the situation a client is facing, provide guidance on all his or her available options, and assist in preparing to seek the restitution entitled through a medical malpractice claim.