Medical Malpractice: Red Flags Every Patient Should Know

Medical malpractice often goes unnoticed until it’s too late, making it crucial for patients to recognize early warning signs.

One major red flag is a lack of communication—when doctors fail to explain diagnoses, treatment plans, or potential risks, patients may unknowingly face serious consequences. Clear, open dialogue is essential to quality medical care, and when that’s missing, mistakes can happen.

“Patients should never feel left in the dark about their own healthcare,” said CHH Partner Dan Pylman.

“If your doctor isn’t answering your questions or fully explaining your treatment, that’s a major red flag. You have the right to understand your care and seek a second opinion if something doesn’t feel right.”

Another concern is inconsistencies in treatment. If a medication is changed without explanation or if different doctors offer conflicting advice, patients should ask for clarification or seek an independent review. Similarly, if a condition worsens despite following medical advice, it could indicate a misdiagnosis or incorrect treatment plan.

Over-treatment is another issue that patients should be cautious about. While some conditions require extensive care, unnecessary tests, procedures, or surgeries can expose patients to additional risks. Understanding standard care practices for a condition can help patients determine if they are being subjected to excessive or unwarranted treatments.

Additionally, rushed consultations or procedures can lead to critical mistakes. If a healthcare provider doesn’t take the time to listen, evaluate symptoms, or properly assess a condition, serious medical errors can occur. Patients deserve attentive care, and if they feel dismissed or rushed, it may be time to seek another opinion.

If you or a loved one has encountered any of these red flags and feel it has led to a serious injury, we encourage you to get in touch with our Chicago-based medical malpractice law firm today. A free consultation with our team of medical malpractice experts can provide the guidance and support needed to address the situation effectively.

• Communication
• Medical Red Flags
• Overtreatment

Doctor Errors + Medical Malpractice + Standard of Care