Patient Experiences of Medical Neglect and Gaslighting in the Emergency Room

Mon, 04 May 2026 14:56:00 +0200

The article highlights the experiences of numerous patients who reported being mistreated or dismissed by emergency room staff during medical emergencies. Many shared stories of being accused of exaggerating symptoms, misdiagnosed, or ignored, sometimes with tragic consequences. Experts identify these behaviors as medical gaslighting, where healthcare providers make patients feel unheard, unimportant, or question the legitimacy of their symptoms. Vulnerable populations, including women and those facing systemic barriers in healthcare, are particularly at risk. Contributing factors can include implicit bias, inadequate communication, and lack of time or training. The article also provides practical advice on how to protect oneself from medical gaslighting, such as documenting symptoms, preparing questions, requesting second opinions, and having a supportive companion during appointments. Several cases illustrate the severe consequences of dismissive medical care, from untreated infectio