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 21st 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
- How Self-Heating Eye Compresses Revolutionize Dry Eye TreatmentHave you ever experienced eyes that feel dry, irritated, or constantly tired? Dry eye syndrome has become increasingly prevalent due to prolonged screen time, environmental factors, and the aging process. Many people struggle to find relief that is both safe and effective. Traditional eye drops often bring only temporary comfort. Warm compresses work well but… Read more: How Self-Heating Eye Compresses Revolutionize Dry Eye Treatment
- Choosing the Right Body Cosmetic Enhancements for YouMore people than ever are choosing body cosmetic enhancements to improve their appearance and boost their confidence. From simple treatments to full surgeries, there are many options available today. But with so many choices, it can be hard to know what’s best for you. Making the right decision means understanding what you want, learning about… Read more: Choosing the Right Body Cosmetic Enhancements for You
- Boosting Athletic Recovery Through St. George Massage TechniquesSetting the Stage: Precision Bodywork for Athletic Demands High-level training is not gentle. It grinds muscle fibers, tests tendon resilience, and locks connective tissue into microscopic knots. The wear is specific, not general, which is why one-size-fits-all relaxation rubdowns barely scratch the surface. Athletes need work that hunts down structural tension with purpose, not a… Read more: Boosting Athletic Recovery Through St. George Massage Techniques
- Supporting Aging Loved Ones: Coping with Memory Loss EffectivelyAs our loved ones age, many families find themselves grappling with the challenges of memory loss. According to recent statistics, nearly 40% of seniors experience some degree of memory impairment. These statistics can be alarming and may leave families feeling overwhelmed. However, understanding how to support aging loved ones can make a significant difference in… Read more: Supporting Aging Loved Ones: Coping with Memory Loss Effectively
- Choosing the Right Personal Injury Attorney Matters for Post Injury CareWhen you’re recovering from a personal injury, the choices you make in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact both your physical recovery and financial future. While your primary focus naturally centers on healing and regaining your health, selecting the right personal injury attorney plays a crucial role in ensuring you receive comprehensive post-injury care and… Read more: Choosing the Right Personal Injury Attorney Matters for Post Injury Care
- The Power of Family Connection When Visiting Seniors in Care HomesWhen a loved one lives in a care home, each visit is a chance to make a difference in their day. It is more than simply showing up. It is about bringing warmth, joy, and familiarity into their lives. Every moment spent together can lift their spirits, strengthen your relationship, and give them something to… Read more: The Power of Family Connection When Visiting Seniors in Care Homes