A&E ( Accident and Emergency ) Negligence Claims

Mistakes Do Happen

In accident and emergency departments in NHS hospitals throughout England and Wales, doctors and nurses provide a vital public service by treating casualties and emergency cases every day of the year. Responsible for diagnosing and treating tens of thousands of patients, the challenging conditions place regular demands on medical practitioners’ specialist skills, knowledge and experience. Commendably, these healthcare professionals usually deliver effective patient treatment in a demanding environment. However, in a relatively small minority of cases, mistakes happen ‚ even with highly trained and experienced staff.

Failure to diagnose acute illnesses

Unfortunately, some of the accident and emergency negligence and errors that occur in hospitals include failure to diagnose acute illnesses or underlying medical conditions. There are occasional cases involving failure to take a proper patient history, assess patients thoroughly or interpret test results (such as scans, X-rays and blood tests) correctly. Even fractures are sometimes missed and patients incorrectly sent home instead of being admitted to hospital for treatment.

From initial diagnosis to inadequate tests, secondary complications or infected wounds, there is potential for error. Other examples of A&E negligence might include not operating when necessary, making mistakes during surgery or neglecting to provide proper post-operative care. Serious consequences can result from failure to treat cases of aortic aneurysm, torsion or meningitis. Similarly, Cauda Equina Syndrome involves tingling, numbness or paralysis of the lower limbs due to motor neurone lesions. Diagnosis is usually via MR or CT scan and in acute, severe cases, early surgery is essential to secure the best outcome and prognosis.

You might have an A&E compensation claim.

If you feel you might might have fallen foul of negligence while under the care of the NHS then please do call one of our solicitors who will guide you through the process from initial evidence gathering to legal proceedings to get the compensation you deserve. Or friendly team of Solicitors can guide you through the process to see if you may have a claim. Call our free claims helpline today for a No Obligation Chat. Te: 0333 987 4161

Claiming A&E compensation

Like any inadequate medical care, negligent treatment in hospital accident and emergency departments may lead to health problems. The patient affected may be left suffering pain, worrying about the future and wondering about the possible A&E compensation claims process.

Whether the problem has minor or far-reaching effects, the victim may need extra treatment in the long term to deal with the consequences. In these difficult circumstances, A&E compensation helps with the issues caused by the negligence or mistreatment that caused or aggravated the illness, injury or disability. In other words, A&E compensation claims are designed to recompense the victim for the physical and financial effects by meeting the costs of additional treatment, physiotherapy, ongoing care and disability support. If applicable, the person’s reduced earning capacity is also taken into account.

Support for patients affected by A&E negligence

If you think you may have been subjected to A&E negligence by the NHS and are considering claiming compensation, we can help. Our experienced solicitors will guide you through the process, including an initial evaluation, gathering of evidence through to legal proceedings or a negotiated out of court settlement. For qualified, experienced and professional legal support, please call us today.