It can be difficult to make the decision to pursue a case of medical negligence for many reasons. 

You may wonder who is to blame, and it can feel as though the process is long-winded with no certain outcome.

We understand all of these situations, and at Andrew and Andrew, we offer assistance to clients who are living with the consequences of medical negligence. 

Here is our guide to better understanding medical negligence claims and the whats, hows and whys of the claiming process.

What is medical negligence?

If you have been injured or somehow negatively affected by medical treatment, even on the NHS, then you may be entitled to make a claim.

Medical negligence happens more frequently than people think, and while the healthcare in the UK is some of the best in the world, it does not mean it is impervious.

Like any insufficient medical care, negligent treatment in A&E departments can cause serious health problems and may require further medical care. In rare cases, A&E misdiagnosis can lead to serious health problems or death.

Medical negligence claims allow patients to receive financial compensation for the impacts these lapses in judgment have had on their lives.

Where and how medical negligence occurs

Negligence can occur in a variety of situations. Most commonly, it is when a medical professional has caused direct injury or a worsening of a patient’s condition as a result of the care that was substandard.

The ‘standard of care’ followed by all doctors means it can be clear in certain cases where that standard has not been met. For medical negligence claims, there must also have been a legitimate professional relationship between the patient and the doctor. This means claims against a family member or friend with a medical background speaking on a personal basis will not be successful.

These claims can be from GP appointments, healthcare visits at home and accident and emergency departments. Most commonly, misdiagnosis is the basis for negligence claims – where a patient has been sent home by a healthcare professional and their condition has worsened as a result.

“I’m not sure where to start…”

If you are living with the negative consequence of medical negligence, it can affect your entire future. The sooner you act, the better.

Legal processes often take time, and medical negligence is no exception. Our experience means we can assure clients that if there is a case, we spare no effort in providing you with the best, correct legal care.

We offer a free consultation service, so that you do not need to worry about costs when you first come to see us.

The majority of cases are taken up on a no-win, no-fee basis, so this continues to be true when you decide to go ahead and engage Andrew and Andrew as your solicitors in Portsmouth.

Get started with your medical negligence claim

Andrew & Andrew Solicitors in Portsmouth have extensive experience in personal claims compensations, and our team have delivered positive results for medical negligence claims across the South.

We are here to help whenever you are ready. To get started, please talk to our team.