Telehealth gives you access to medical care without leaving home. But when a mistake happens during a virtual visit, it can still have serious consequences. If a misdiagnosis results in harm, you may start to question whether it qualifies as malpractice.
What telehealth misdiagnosis looks like
A misdiagnosis occurs when a doctor gives the wrong diagnosis or fails to identify a condition. This can happen more often in telehealth since physical exams are limited. Doctors rely heavily on what you describe and what they can observe on screen.
Some medical issues, like infections or fractures, may not appear clearly during a video call. If a doctor fails to recommend further testing or an in-person evaluation, they could miss a significant problem. That delay can affect your treatment and lead to worse outcomes.
When a misdiagnosis may be malpractice
Not every error meets the legal definition of malpractice. To qualify, the doctor must fall below the accepted standard of care. In other words, their actions must differ from what a reasonably skilled doctor would do in the same situation.
If you report specific symptoms and the provider ignores them or fails to ask important questions, it may show poor judgment. If that mistake causes harm, you could have grounds for a malpractice claim.
How technology plays a role
Technology can impact how well a doctor understands your condition. Poor video or audio quality can make it hard to catch important details. If your doctor doesn’t adjust or reschedule the appointment, they might miss warning signs.
In some cases, telehealth platforms encourage brief visits. When doctors are rushed, they may not collect enough information to make an accurate diagnosis. That increases the risk of error.
You deserve clear, careful attention during any telehealth visit. If your appointment feels rushed or something doesn’t seem right, ask follow-up questions or request another session. Virtual care should still protect your health and safety.