Our skin is the largest organ in our entire body, yet, unfortunately, many people overlook the importance of taking care of their skin and treating skin conditions.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, more than 85 million people in the U.S. are affected by skin diseases, which is why dermatologists are in high demand in Pennsylvania and all across the nation. Dermatologists are doctors and medical specialists who treat conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails.

Dermatologists commit medical malpractice, too

“Like any other healthcare provider, a dermatologist can commit medical malpractice by mistreating a patient, failing to diagnose a skin condition, and failing to follow recognized standards of care,” warns our Philadelphia dermatology malpractice attorney at The Weitz Firm, LLC. One of the most common causes of dermatology-related medical malpractice claims is failure to diagnose skin cancer in a timely manner (more often than not, a dermatologist is required to order a skin biopsy to confirm or rule out the presence of cancer).

But cancer is not the only condition treated by dermatologists in the U.S., as there are more than 3,000 medical conditions treated by skin specialists, ranging from minor allergic reactions and acne to cysts, infections, eczema, and psoriasis.

A dermatologist’s duty of care

Being a dermatologist is more than just looking at a patient’s skin and prescribing drugs with unpronounceable names. A dermatologist must adhere to the highest standards of care, which means that any changes in the skin of a patient needs to be regularly and properly monitored.

For example, if a cancer lesion is removed, a dermatologist has a duty to ensure that no cancer or other abnormal cells remain in that area of skin. “When prescribing medications, a dermatologist must review the patient’s medical history and ensure that this particular treatment or drug is appropriate for this particular patient and his or her situation,” says our experienced dermatology malpractice attorney in Philadelphia.

Types of dermatology malpractice

Dermatology malpractice can take many forms and shapes, but the most common causes of medical malpractice lawsuits against dermatologists include:

  • Failure to diagnose skin cancer or other skin condition in a timely manner
  • Failure to prescribe the appropriate drugs and medications to treat a condition
  • Failure to order the appropriate treatment
  • Failure to take the patient’s complaints into account
  • Failure to review the patient’s medical history
  • Failure to monitor the patient’s condition
  • Failure to follow up with a patient
  • Failure to provide clear instructions about the treatment
  • Causing injury to a patient when performing a procedure;
  • Failure to obtain informed consent from the patient to use clinical photographs of his or her skin condition
  • Ordering a full-body examination and full nudity when such examination is not necessary and
  • Failure to prescribe medications with extra care to avoid reasonably foreseeable complications and adverse side effects.

Damages and losses caused by dermatologist malpractice

Dermatology malpractice can result in devastating consequences and irreparable harm to the patient. It is not uncommon for dermatologists to make medical mistakes that lead to:

  • permanent scarring
  • appearance of stretch marks and other blemishes
  • disfigurement
  • amputation
  • advancement of cancer and
  • premature death

All of these consequences can cause pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, lost wages, diminished quality of life, and many other damages and losses.

Recovering damages when you have been a victim of dermatology malpractice can be tough, especially for those who are feeling traumatized and frustrated by their injury or illness caused or aggravated by a negligent dermatologist. If this sounds like you, do not hesitate to schedule a free consultation with our medical malpractice attorneys at The Weitz Firm, LLC. We can help you seek compensation for your losses and damages. Call our offices at 267-587-6240.

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