In this assignment, we examine a case where John Brown, aged 62, was misdiagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer by doctors at City hospital.

Ethical issues related to medical errors can be categorized around many ethical principles.

This analysis will involve examining the facts of the case, relevant legal standards, and potential liabilities and remedies available to the plaintiff.

Patient Misdiagnosed with Terminal Cancer Sues After Spending Life Savings

A man who spent his life savings after being told he had months to live is seeking compensation after doctors at City hospital conceded they had gotten the diagnosis wrong. John Brown, 62, was told two years ago that he had terminal pancreatic cancer. He decided to spend his remaining time in style, quitting his job and spending his savings on hotels, restaurants, and holidays.

A year later doctors at City hospital revised their diagnosis. Brown was suffering from pancreatitis, a nonfatal ailment. "My life has been turned upside down by this. I was told by the doctor that I had cancer, and from that day I Iived life in full." Brown said.

Key Questions to Address:

• Duty of the Hospital: What duty did the hospital owe to the plaintiff (John Brown) in terms of providing accurate diagnosis and medical care?
• Breach of Duty: Was there a breach of duty on the part of the hospital in misdiagnosing John Brown with terminal cancer?
• Causation of Harm: Did the hospital's misdiagnosis directly cause the harm suffered by the plaintiff, including the significant financial and emotional impact?
• Damages Suffered: What kind of damages did the plaintiff (John Brown) suffer as a result of the misdiagnosis, including financial loss and emotional distress?
• Plaintiff's Actions: Did the plaintiff take any actions that could have contributed to the situation or affected his claim for compensation?