Title: Delayed Diagnosis
Author: Harold Myers
Publisher: Twenty Literary Group
ISBN: 978-1-961250-72-7
Genre: Fiction/Thriller
Pages: 190
Reviewer: Margie Przybylski
Hollywood Book Reviews
While a work of fiction, author Harold Myers’ Delayed Diagnosis delves into an issue faced by many – discrimination when seeking medical attention. Doctor Lionel Viking is found to be consistently mis-diagnosing patients. Not only does this lead to negative effects on their health, but many also suffer psychologically as they worry whether their health problems will ever be solved. One such character, James Mark Spencer, is mistakenly told he has an age spot when in fact it is a cancerous spot that needs removal. Luckily, he sought a second opinion. However, not all patients of Doctor Viking proved to be so lucky.
As the plot progresses, Viking faces trouble with the law. After receiving proper treatment from a different doctor, James seeks retribution. He becomes acquainted with Hope Moran. Hope’s team learns more about Viking’s patients, and the damages his malpractice caused. It becomes increasingly evident that Myers does not take his minority patients seriously and continues to harm. One patient of many suffers the most, Doctor Viking’s ignorance which ultimately costs her life.
Justice is reached at the end of the book when Doctor Viking is found guilty in the court of law. This is not to be mistaken for a happy ending in a world where discrimination continues to be a daily battle for so many in the world. We hear the statistics on a regular basis, as well as anecdotes from those we know and love about a doctor who does not take pain and health issues of patients seriously. Myers’ book reminds us to prioritize health above all and continue to seek wellness. Myers empowers readers to fight for what is right, especially when it means going against someone we ought to trust.
Myers’ storytelling unfolds naturally throughout the book. The plot is just as gripping as a televised legal drama. His cast of characters are realistic and carry his message thoughtfully. While ultimately found to be despicable, Dr. Viking is treated with dignity throughout the book. He is given a fair trial, and the evidence is allowed to speak for itself.
I recommend this book to all lovers of justice as well as those pursuing careers in the fields of the medical and legal justice systems. Medical professionals deal with so many people on a daily basis, they should be prepared to treat every patient with fairness and dignity. While it deals with serious subject matter and an important issue prevalent in society today, readers from all walks of life can learn a great deal from Harold Myer’s Delayed Diagnosis.