There is not enough research to provide accurate statistics on medical misdiagnosis worldwide, however various studies conducted into healthcare failures suggest that between 40-60% of patients are either misdiagnosed or are given inaccurate advice about their medical condition.
Many medical conditions that often prove fatal can be prevented with early diagnosis and early treatment. Information is the key to successful first time diagnosis- patients must be able to recognise symptoms when they start, know where to seek medical advice and be able to locate the healthcare professional they need.
With the rising costs of healthcare and a reluctancy of health insurance companies to pay out for preventative treatments, more and more patients are searching for alternative, affordable treatment options rather than relying on the referral of a family doctor or general practitioner. Patients no longer put their health in the hands of the first doctor recommended. Patients are more knowledgeable and are confident enough to seek second and third opinions, search for hospitals and doctors offering financing plans or lower treatment costs and are willing to travel further afield for healthcare.
With this new wave of patients taking their healthcare into their own hands, the internet is proving invaluable to patients when researching their conditions, treatment procedures and especially with locating a doctor.
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