Is this grounds for a physician neglect lawsuit?

by Linda
(Albemarle, NC USA)

I was in to see my physician on January 16, 2011. This was my first time there. He had blood drawn and did a quick exam. He noted the pitting edema in my legs and feet but did not give me any medicine, he only had them make me another appointment for 30 days later!

Since then, I have gotten progressively worse. Even my pharmacist is concerned about me. I have called the office repeatedly to talk to the doctor to no avail. The medical assistant told me to wait until I come in on February 16th to see what the doctor planned to do!

I am swollen from my feet to my thighs, short of breath with coughing and severe pain in my left side and my heart feels as if it is turning flips in my chest. My feet and hands are numb and my pharmacist has tried to no avail to reach my doctor but they refused to let him speak to him or even a nurse. They told me the office manager was taking care of things!!

When I asked her what the problem was, she just said, "you'll have to call back in the morning and speak to Pam the office manager." I have yet to speak to her. My pharmacist has faxed information to them to which they have denied getting!

I don't know what's wrong but I do know there is something definitely wrong with this picture! What should I do next?

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ANSWER for "Is this grounds for a physician neglect lawsuit?":

Linda:

The first thing you should do is get to the Emergency Room. The second thing you should do is find another physician.

Other than alluding to your pharmacist, you didn't mention whether he was trying to communicate with your new physician on general principal, or if he was attempting to elicit approval for a refill of medications previously prescribed by your last physician.

Get to the emergency room. Find another doctor. Get the medication you need. And Get Better!

Since laws change frequently and across jurisdictions you should get a personalized case evaluation from an attorney licensed in your state (if you haven't already). Find an experienced local attorney to give you a FREE personalized case review here.


Best of luck,

Law Guy