Errors in your medical records after a car accident could not only harm your claim, but they can be dangerous to your health and even risk your life.
Unfortunately, it’s not so uncommon for errors to appear in your medical records, which is why you need to pay attention to the information they contain and take action in case anything needs to be corrected.
Here’s what you should do if you notice an error in your medical record after a St. Louis car accident.
Common Mistakes in Medical Records
Errors in medical records tend to happen more often in case of a visit to the emergency unit. Moreso, if you were not conscious during your visit, doctors often have to assume some things or guess them. Omissions or incorrect information need to be corrected as soon as possible, as these records will serve as evidence during your car accident claim.
Unreported Symptoms
When you go to the doctor for an evaluation after a car accident, make sure to be thorough when explaining why you’re there. Present your symptoms in detail, without exaggerating them.
Even when you are clear and concise about the injuries you have suffered, the doctor who is evaluating you might fail to record everything in your medical record. This can happen during hasty visits, or if one of you gets distracted.
Make sure to ask for a copy of each one of your medical records. Read them carefully and follow-up as soon as possible if something didn’t get reported.
Incorrect Personal Information
When you visit a doctor for the first time, they might not have your personal information available. If you notice that your name is spelled wrong, your age is incorrect or any other piece of data does not correspond to reality, call or visit them again and request a correction of your medical records.
This kind of objective information is the easiest to correct, as you can easily provide evidence to support your request. Regarding the medical information itself, it’s sometimes hard to get a doctor to correct their previous evaluation, especially if you don’t have evidence to support your request.
Sometimes, it’s necessary to visit a different doctor for a second opinion. Make sure that you choose a doctor who accepts car accident cases and who is accepted by the insurance company as a reliable source.
How to Fix Errors in Your Medical Records
Request copies of every medical report that will go into your medical history. If you find any errors in one of your medical records, file a request for correction. The HIPAA act gives you the right to do so, and all medical service providers must have a procedure in place for these cases.
It is also important to speak with an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney following an auto accident. They can help you ensure that your right to full compensation after an accident is protected right from the start of your claim.
Free Consultation with a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
Don’t talk to an insurance claims adjuster before speaking with The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. We can help you avoid making statements that may affect the outcome of your case. The consultation is free; you don’t pay unless we get you money!
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