Upon falling ill, many individuals seek the advice of a medical professional. Doctors are highly educated and trained professionals who utilize a wealth of knowledge and diagnostic skills to appropriately assess and treat individual patients. In cases where a doctor fails to take steps to appropriately assess and diagnose a patient's condition, permanent injury and even death may result.

A woman was recently awarded more than $800,000 in damages related to a medical malpractice lawsuit related to an amputation injury. Upon falling ill, the woman sought medical advice and treatment from the doctor named as the defendant in the case. According to the lawsuit, the doctor failed to conduct an appropriate physical or perform appropriate diagnostic tests to determine what was wrong with the patient.

As a result of the doctor's negligent acts, the woman was misdiagnosed as having terminal cancer when in fact she was suffering from pneumonia. As a result of the misdiagnosis, the woman's condition worsened. She lapsed into a coma and suffered blood loss to her extremities. Doctors were eventually forced to amputate her left foot.

The woman filed a medical malpractice lawsuit against the attending physician who failed to diagnose her pneumonia. A jury recently awarded the woman damages in excess of $800,000 related to permanent disability, medical expenses and general pain and suffering.

Ohio residents who have suffered bodily harm and injury as a result of a doctor's failure to diagnose or misdiagnoses would be wise to consult with a legal professional. An attorney who handles medical malpractice matters can provide advice related to potential legal remedy and help provide for the best possible outcome should an individual decide to take legal action.

Insurance Journal, "Washington Woman Awarded $813,000 in Medical Suit," April 1, 2013