Failure to Diagnose Lawyer Serving Fort Washington & Prince George’s County

An accurate and timely diagnosis can mean the difference between recovery and long-term harm. When a healthcare provider fails to diagnose a serious condition—or delays diagnosis until effective treatment is no longer possible—the consequences may be devastating. Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis are recognized forms of medical negligence under Maryland law. At Palumbo, Palumbo, & Lovelace, LLC, we represent patients in Fort Washington, Prince George’s County, and throughout Southern Maryland who have suffered harm because critical conditions were overlooked or treated too late.

It takes legal and medical knowledge to uncover what went wrong.

Why Failure to Diagnose Cases Are Complex

Not every unfavorable medical outcome constitutes malpractice. However, when a physician disregards symptoms, fails to order appropriate testing, or misinterprets diagnostic results—and the delay causes harm—there may be grounds for a claim. Establishing liability requires a clear demonstration that earlier or proper diagnosis would have materially altered the patient’s prognosis.

Our process involves:

  • Comprehensive review of medical records.
  • Consultation with independent medical experts.
  • Examination of the standard diagnostic protocols applicable to the case.
  • Demonstrating how timely diagnosis could have changed the outcome.


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Common Misdiagnoses and Delayed Diagnoses

We handle serious diagnostic errors involving life-altering conditions.

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Cancer (e.g., breast, lung, colon)

Delays can turn otherwise treatable illnesses into terminal conditions.

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Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Failure to act promptly can result in permanent brain damage or death.

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Heart Attacks

Often misdiagnosed in women and younger patients who present with atypical symptoms.

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Infections (e.g., sepsis, meningitis)

Delayed recognition and treatment can lead to catastrophic injury or death.

The harm caused by delay or misdiagnosis deserves real legal attention.

Compensation for Diagnostic Errors

When medical negligence involving diagnosis causes harm, compensation may cover:

  • Medical treatment worsened by the delay.
  • Hospitalization, surgery, or long-term care requirements.
  • Pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life.
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
  • Emotional distress for patients and their families.
  • Funeral expenses in wrongful death cases.

Our attorneys collaborate with both medical and economic experts to ensure damages reflect the full impact of diagnostic errors.

Local experience. National-level care.

How  Palumbo, Palumbo, & Lovelace Can Help

For decades, we have represented patients and families across Prince George’s County in malpractice cases involving diagnostic failures. Our attorneys know how to identify negligence in medical records, secure testimony from credible experts, and present cases that withstand the defense strategies of hospitals and insurers. We combine professional rigor with compassionate client service.

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  • Skilled handling of complex malpractice claims.

  • Access to independent medical specialists.

  • Clear guidance on what to expect at every step

  • Trial-ready preparation when settlement is not an option.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s considered a failure to diagnose?

    It may involve overlooking clear symptoms, failing to order diagnostic tests, misreading results, or not following up appropriately. If these failures result in harm, a malpractice claim may be appropriate.

  • Do I have a case if I was diagnosed eventually?

    Possibly. The key factor is whether the delay caused additional injury, progression of illness, or reduced treatment options.

  • How long do I have to file a misdiagnosis lawsuit in Maryland?

    Usually 3 years from when the injury was discovered or should have been—but don’t wait. Cases are stronger with early action.

  • Can I sue if the hospital already apologized or offered a settlement?

    You still retain the right to pursue a malpractice claim. It is essential not to sign documents or accept settlement offers before consulting with an attorney.

Representing Diagnostic Error Victims in Southern Maryland

Palumbo, Palumbo, & Lovelace, LLC has represented individuals and families in Fort Washington, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, Clinton, and surrounding communities affected by diagnostic failures. These cases are not only technical—they are deeply personal. Our attorneys treat every client’s case with the respect, diligence, and seriousness it deserves.

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