As medical technology has continued to advance at a rapid rate, many new tests and available procedures that can be performed on patients involve the use of radiation to provide for better imaging and other test results that can help to obtain more accurate and timely diagnoses.  Unfortunately, some patients are victims of what amounts to medical malpractice because high doses of radiation can lead to the development of different forms of cancer.  In response to this growing problem, the Image Wisely campaign has begun, which is an effort to curb the practice of subjecting patients to radiation unless it's necessary to protect their health.

According to statements issued in conjunction with the launching of this campaign, there are several reasons that have been identified that prompt a high number of tests involving radiation, including:

1. Insurance providers pay doctors for each procedure performed;
2. Many medical facilities own their own testing equipment, leading to an incentive to recapture this investment;
3. Radiation-involved tests can be done to protect against potential medical malpractice claims; and
4. Patients can request these tests based on what they've seen from friends and family.

Unfortunately, a plethora of studies have shown that radiation that's an integral part of tests such as CT scans can and does lead to cancer, and patients die in high numbers when they contract cancer that was caused by this radiation. 

New York Medical Malpractice Lawyers

The reason that campaigns such as this one are launched is because medical professionals understand that exposing someone to radiation unnecessarily is a serious problem that brings about substantial health risks.  Patients who contract cancer because of the radiation exposure from these tests could have New York medical malpractice claims to make against those medical providers who subjected them to these tests.

If you or someone you love has suffered for any reason because of unnecessary medical tests, you need to seek the help of New York medical malpractice lawyers who have been holding medical care providers responsible for this type of harm accountable for nearly 40 years.  Contact Fitzgerald & Fitzgerald today to schedule a free initial consultation.