An investigation by the BBC has found that 762 ‘never events’ occurred in English hospitals between 2009 and 2012. A ‘never event’ is a mistake or act of negligence that’s classified by the Department of Health as so serious that it should never happen.
The total of 762 was broken down as follows:
- – 322 foreign objects left inside patients’ bodies after surgery
- – 214 operations carried out on the wrong body part
- – 73 feeding tubes inserted into patients’ lungs
- – 58 incorrect implants or prostheses fitted.
The NHS estimates that the chances of a ‘never event’ happening to a patient is around one in 20,000, so whilst rare, these blunders are still happening too often. Even more worryingly, a separate report has recently revealed that, in the last five years, almost 200 doctors have escaped referral to the GMC after making near-fatal errors.
Of course, the vast majority of medical professionals do a superb job, often under very difficult circumstances. However, mistakes do sometimes happen – whether as a result of lack of skill or competence, poor judgement or simple human error. And if you’ve suffered physical or emotional harm or loss because a doctor or nurse has failed in their duty of care, then you’re entitled to claim compensation on the grounds of medical negligence.
You don’t have to suffer a ‘never event’ to have a valid claim. There are all kinds of clinical and medical negligence claims, from cosmetic procedures that have gone wrong through to complications following a mishandled birth. Thankfully, many patients make a full recovery. But in some cases, lifelong physical or mental disability can result for the patient, or in the case of birth injuries, their child.
Injury Lawyers 4u will handle your medical negligence claim
Medical negligence claims can be complex and time-consuming, so you’ll need to seek expert advice and guidance. The specialist personal injury solicitors at Injury Lawyers 4u have the knowledge and experience to assess your case and if your claim is valid, successfully prove that your injury or loss was caused by a failure in the duty of care owed by a medical professional or organisation.
We’ll guide you through every step of the claims process, getting you the compensation to which you’re entitled and helping you access the services and support you need to recover.
Injury Lawyers 4u are ‘no win, no fee’ solicitors, so there’s nothing to lose by asking us to help. Call us today on 0333 400 4445.