What is Clinical Negligence?

When undergoing medical treatment, we are often at our most vulnerable, putting out trust in the care of healthcare professionals. In some rare cases things may not go to plan, causing patients to feel as though this trust has been betrayed. 

With our years of practical experience guiding successful medical negligence cases, we’re here to tell you everything you need to know about clinical negligence. 

What is clinical negligence? 

Clinical negligence, also referred to as medical negligence, occurs when an individual is receiving treatment from a healthcare professional, whether this is privately or through the NHS, and suffers avoidable injuries during that treatment. 

Overall, medical procedures are usually completed without any complications, however, in rare cases, a mistake may be made by someone who is responsible for your care. This mistake may then lead to serious harm and injury. 

It is important to note that clinical negligence is not confined to hospital treatment and can also occur during dental procedures, GP care, beauty treatments and in care homes. 

What are some examples of clinical negligence? 

Clinical negligence can present itself in many different forms and every single case is unique.  This is why the service we offer to our clients is entirely bespoke depending on the circumstances of your claim.  However, there are some common examples of clinical negligence, which includes: 

  • Surgical mistakes, resulting in scarring, internal injuries, or infection 

  • The wrongful dispensing of prescriptions, or prescribing the incorrect medication 

  • Not receiving a patient’s informed consent for an operation 

  • A misdiagnosis, or late diagnosis 

  • Poor after-care, including a lack of follow-up appointments 

  • Failing to inform patients of any risks associated with treatments and procedures 

  • Sudden, unexpected death that could have been avoided 

If you have suffered as a result of any of these incidences, you may be entitled to claim medical negligence. 

How can you claim clinical negligence? 

Bringing a claim for clinical negligence can provide you with financial compensation for the avoidable consequences of your negligent care. You must start your legal claim within three years of the negligence occurring, or within three years of the date you realised that your injury might have been caused by the treatment.  

If your claim is going to be successful, then you must prove that: <