Yes. In Illinois, a radiologist may be liable if a missed finding on an X-ray, CT scan or MRI falls below the accepted standard of care and causes harm. But not every missed result is malpractice.
When can a missed finding be malpractice?
Medical negligence in diagnostic imaging can manifest in various ways. A claim may arise if a radiologist:
- Misses a clear abnormality
- Misreads the scan
- Fails to report an urgent finding
- Does not recommend needed follow-up
The key question is whether a careful radiologist would have handled the scan differently under the same facts.
What harm can result?
A missed finding can delay treatment and allow a condition to get worse. Possible harms may include:
- Delayed diagnosis
- More serious illness or injury
- Extra procedures or hospitalization
- Higher medical bills
- Missed work
For example, if a scan shows signs of internal bleeding and the problem is not reported in time, the delay may cause serious harm.
What evidence matters?
Useful evidence may include:
- The original images
- The radiology report
- Medical records
- Messages or notes about the result
- An expert review
These records can help show what the radiologist saw, what was reported and whether the mistake caused harm.
How long do you have to file?
Illinois medical malpractice claims have strict deadlines. In many cases, the time limit depends on when the patient knew or should have known about the injury. Some claims also have a separate outer deadline. Because timing rules can be complex, it is important to act quickly.
Understanding your options
A missed radiology finding can have serious consequences. But a claim depends on the facts, the standard of care and the harm caused. An Illinois medical malpractice attorney can review the records and help determine whether a claim may be available.