Can I Make a Claim For Medical Negligence?

When we visit a hospital, we expect to be looked after, yet sadly, sometimes medical experts can let us down with a poor standard of care.

NHS Resolution, the NHS dispute-handling body, settled some 16,484 cases in 2021/2022, paying out £2.5 billion.

Yet, with the NHS under considerable stress due to a range of factors including chronic underfunding, understaffing, and winter pressures, it’s likely that incidences of poor care – also known as medical negligence – may become even more common.

In this article we look at whether you can sue a hospital for medical negligence, including the information you need to be able to sue, other factors that can benefit your chances of success, and how long you have to make a claim.

Can I sue for medical negligence?

The short answer is yes, you can sue a healthcare provider for medical negligence. If you received care from a healthcare provider that was substandard and resulted in you being injured, then you may be able to make a claim.

What factors influence the success of a medical negligence claim?

If you make a medical negligence claim against a healthcare provider, you will be asked by your solicitors to provide evidence to support your claim. There are several different types that can be used:

• Photographs – Of your injury when it occurred, or shortly after.
• Medical records – Your medical records should have logged the injury and include things like x-rays, MRI scans and so forth. Medical records are important, so be sure to visit your GP and get the injuries logged in the unlikely event the hospital you received poor care at fails to log your claim.
• Statement – You will be asked to provide a personal statement about what happened. This statement must be as detailed as possible. Your solicitor may ask family and friends to provide evidence too.

Your lawyer will then enlist the help of medical experts who will report on how you were treated and the effects on you, and whether the healthcare provider was to blame.

How long do I have to claim against the hospital?

You will typically have three years from the date that the medical negligence occurred to make a claim.

If you were under 18 when the malpractice occurred, you will have three years after you turn 18, up until your 21^st birthday.

If you have been affected by medical negligence, it can be a good idea to enlist the help of a solicitor to help you get the compensation and justice you deserve. Do you know anyone who has been affected by medical negligence? What was their experience? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Read Also

• 
  What Is a Hernia? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
  Understanding Hernias A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. While hernias can develop in different parts of the body, they are most common in the abdomen and groin areas. Causes of Hernias Several factors contribute to the development of a hernia, including:… Read more: What Is a Hernia? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
• 
  The Rise of Wellness Tourism: How Travel and Self-Care Are Creating a New Industry
  Traditional vacations are transforming. Travelers are no longer satisfied with simply lying on a beach or visiting tourist attractions. Many now seek experiences that leave them feeling better than when they arrived. The global wellness tourism industry has seen remarkable growth in recent years: This shift matters because it changes how destinations market themselves and… Read more: The Rise of Wellness Tourism: How Travel and Self-Care Are Creating a New Industry
• 
  Meet the Experts: The Team Behind Torrance Bariatrics and Weight Loss Surgery
  When it comes to weight loss surgery, having a team of experienced professionals by your side can make all the difference. At Torrance Bariatrics Institute, patients are supported by a team of dedicated experts who are committed to delivering personalized care and helping individuals achieve their weight loss goals. In this article, we’ll introduce you… Read more: Meet the Experts: The Team Behind Torrance Bariatrics and Weight Loss Surgery
• 
  Why Medical Debt Often Leads to Increased Financial Stress in Other Areas
  Medical debt is one of the most significant contributors to financial stress in the United States. With rising healthcare costs, unexpected medical emergencies, and inadequate insurance coverage, millions of Americans find themselves burdened by medical bills that ripple through their overall financial stability. This article explores why medical debt often leads to financial stress in… Read more: Why Medical Debt Often Leads to Increased Financial Stress in Other Areas
• 
  Breaking the Stigma: How Open Conversations Can Transform the Way We View Eating Disorders
  Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that affect millions of individuals and families worldwide. Despite their prevalence, they remain shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding, making it difficult for those affected to seek help or even acknowledge their struggles. Open conversations have the power to break down these barriers, fostering understanding, compassion, and support. By… Read more: Breaking the Stigma: How Open Conversations Can Transform the Way We View Eating Disorders
• 
  Why Your Bed is Key to Rest and Recovery
  A good night’s sleep is essential for your health and well-being, yet many people underestimate the role that their bed plays in ensuring quality rest. From improving physical recovery to enhancing mental clarity, the right bed is more than just a place to sleep—it’s the foundation of a restorative routine. Here’s why your bed matters… Read more: Why Your Bed is Key to Rest and Recovery