Telehealth Malpractice: The Hidden Dangers of Virtual Healthcare

The Evolution of Telehealth

Telehealth has revolutionized the way Americans access healthcare, offering the convenience of virtual consultations from the comfort of their homes. This advancement has especially benefited individuals in remote areas, those with limited mobility, and patients with demanding schedules. However, while telehealth presents numerous advantages, it also introduces risks, including medical errors, misdiagnoses, and lack of comprehensive care. If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to telehealth malpractice, Etemi Law in Connecticut is here to help. Contact us at (203) 424-2746 for a free consultation to explore your legal options.

The Advantages of Telehealth

The widespread adoption of telehealth services has significantly improved healthcare accessibility. Below are some of the key benefits:

Convenience and Accessibility
Telehealth eliminates the need for patients to travel to medical facilities, making it easier for those in rural locations or those with physical disabilities to receive medical attention.

Reduced Exposure to Illness
By consulting with healthcare providers virtually, patients avoid waiting rooms, reducing the risk of exposure to contagious diseases like COVID-19 or influenza.

Time and Cost Savings
Virtual appointments are often more affordable than in-person visits and eliminate expenses related to transportation and time off work.

Increased Access to Specialists
Patients can consult with specialists who may not be locally available, ensuring they receive expert opinions and tailored care.

While telehealth has proven to be an effective alternative to traditional healthcare, patients should also be aware of its potential risks.

The Risks of Telehealth Malpractice

Despite its benefits, telehealth presents several challenges that may jeopardize patient care. Some of the major concerns include:

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis
Without a physical examination, doctors may overlook critical symptoms, leading to an incorrect or delayed diagnosis. Some conditions, such as infections, fractures, or neurological disorders, require hands-on evaluation that telehealth cannot provide.

Limited Ability to Perform Physical Exams
A fundamental limitation of telehealth is the inability to conduct thorough physical assessments. Physicians rely on patient-reported symptoms, which may not provide a complete picture of the condition. In cases where a physical exam is essential, a missed diagnosis can result in severe health complications.

Technology-Related Errors
Telehealth relies on technology, and issues such as poor internet connections, video lags, or platform glitches can impact communication between patients and providers. A lost connection or unclear audio may cause critical medical information to be overlooked.

Prescription Errors
Doctors prescribing medications via telehealth may not have full access to a patient’s medical history, leading to the possibility of prescribing the wrong medication or failing to catch harmful drug interactions. Without proper monitoring, patients are at risk of adverse reactions.

Lack of Continuity of Care
Telehealth services often involve on-demand providers who may not have access to a patient’s full medical records. If a patient frequently changes providers, essential medical history may be lost, leading to fragmented care and potential mismanagement of chronic conditions.

Informed Consent and Patient Rights Issues
Patients may not fully understand the limitations of telehealth before a virtual appointment. Many do not realize they have the right to hold negligent providers accountable if their telehealth treatment results in harm.

Understanding Liability in Telehealth Malpractice Cases

Healthcare providers have a legal and ethical responsibility to determine whether a patient requires an in-person evaluation. When providers fail to recommend in-person assessments for conditions that cannot be effectively diagnosed through telehealth, they may be held liable for medical negligence.

If you suspect that your health issues should have been evaluated in person rather than through telemedicine—and that this failure led to injury or harm—you may have a malpractice case. Etemi Law in Connecticut specializes in handling telehealth malpractice claims and can help you seek justice. Contact us at (203) 424-2746 for a free consultation.

What to Do if You Experience Telehealth Malpractice

If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to telehealth malpractice, it is essential to take the following steps:

1. Document Your Experience
   • Keep records of your telehealth appointments, including dates, provider names, and details of the consultations.
   • Save any correspondence, prescriptions, or follow-up recommendations received during the virtual visit.
2. Seek a Second Opinion
   • If you suspect a misdiagnosis, consult another healthcare provider for a second opinion to confirm the accuracy of your diagnosis and treatment plan.
3. Obtain Medical Records
   • Request copies of your medical records from both the telehealth provider and any subsequent doctors who treated you.
4. Contact an Attorney Specializing in Medical Malpractice
   • An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, gather necessary evidence, and help you file a claim if negligence is identified.

How Etemi Law Can Help

Telehealth providers are held to the same standard of care as traditional medical practitioners. When they fail to meet these standards, they can be held legally accountable. At Etemi Law, we specialize in medical malpractice cases, including those involving telehealth errors. Our team will investigate your case, consult medical experts, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you have been affected by telehealth malpractice, don’t wait. Contact Etemi Law in Connecticut today at (203) 424-2746 for a free case evaluation. Your health and legal rights matter, and we are here to ensure justice is served.

Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. If you need legal counsel, please contact Etemi Law directly.