Medical Misdiagnosis Affects One in Three in France, Survey Reveals
A study finds significant numbers of patients experience prolonged medical journeys without clear diagnoses, prompting reliance on digital solutions.
A recent study conducted by OpinionWay for MedInTechs has revealed that approximately 33% of individuals in France experience medical misdiagnosis, often referred to as "errance médicale." This phenomenon, characterized by patients visiting multiple medical professionals without receiving a definitive diagnosis or appropriate treatment, has increasingly become a pressing concern in the healthcare system.
The situation significantly impacts not only the patients directly affected but also their families, with around 50% of the population either experiencing errance médicale personally or knowing someone who has.
The survey highlights that among those grappling with errance médicale, 26% of French individuals are inclined to seek solutions through digital resources or artificial intelligence when confronted with a lack of medical guidance.
This trend is particularly pronounced among the youth; 45% of respondents aged 18-24 express willingness to rely on non-traditional medical solutions.
Additionally, 30% of those who have faced medical misdiagnosis themselves also show a preference for digital healthcare options.
The research underscores the emotional and physical toll that errance médicale takes on patients.
Those caught in this cycle often experience heightened psychological distress, compounded by the anxiety of navigating the healthcare system without satisfactory answers or relief.
MedInTechs, a key event focused on health innovation, is scheduled to host its fourth edition in Paris next week, and this study forms part of ongoing discussions about enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery in France.
The situation significantly impacts not only the patients directly affected but also their families, with around 50% of the population either experiencing errance médicale personally or knowing someone who has.
The survey highlights that among those grappling with errance médicale, 26% of French individuals are inclined to seek solutions through digital resources or artificial intelligence when confronted with a lack of medical guidance.
This trend is particularly pronounced among the youth; 45% of respondents aged 18-24 express willingness to rely on non-traditional medical solutions.
Additionally, 30% of those who have faced medical misdiagnosis themselves also show a preference for digital healthcare options.
The research underscores the emotional and physical toll that errance médicale takes on patients.
Those caught in this cycle often experience heightened psychological distress, compounded by the anxiety of navigating the healthcare system without satisfactory answers or relief.
MedInTechs, a key event focused on health innovation, is scheduled to host its fourth edition in Paris next week, and this study forms part of ongoing discussions about enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery in France.
