Case Studies

Vasectomy gone wrong

Vasectomy gone wrong

Tom’s story is based on a real case of a failed procedure which resulted in permanent damage. Tom went into hospital for a routine vasectomy. He was told to expect some discomfort for a few days after the surgery, but Tom was in severe pain and it only got worse. He...

Report finds “serious safety concerns for public health”

Report finds “serious safety concerns for public health”

An Australian government report published January 2018 shows that the number of medical disasters in Australia is decreasing. According to the Productivity Commission’s report on government health services, there were 82 sentinel events nationally in 2015-16. Sentinel...

Surgical Errors

Surgical Errors

Surgical errors resulting in permanent damage - 6 common causes. A surgical error is an avoidable mistake during surgery. There is an element of risk associated with any surgery and it is standard practice to sign an informed consent before undergoing surgery....

GP missed signs of colorectal cancer

GP missed signs of colorectal cancer

Gary’s story is based on a real case of medical misdiagnosis which resulted in a severe tumor being undetected. Gary was having some stomach pain so he initially went to see his GP who diagnosed the pain as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). He visited his GP regularly...

Medical misdiagnosis – it’s more common than you think.

Medical misdiagnosis – it’s more common than you think.

The big cases are often seen in the news headlines, however it is smaller instances of medical misdiagnosis and negligence that often go unreported and in some cases, the victims are unaware they have experienced it at all. From out of date or incorrect advice,...

Medical misdiagnosis – When should you seek a second opinion?

Medical misdiagnosis – When should you seek a second opinion?

Doctors and medical providers are highly trained and work hard to provide health services for their community. However, like any profession, mistakes can happen and it is important to know how to identify an instance of medical negligence, what to do and when you...