LEGAL RECOURSE FOR MEDICAL ERRORS: INITIATING A MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE CLAIM IN THE UK

Medical errors can have devastating consequences for patients, leading to physical harm, emotional distress, and financial burdens. In the UK, individuals who have suffered harm due to medical negligence have the right to seek legal recourse through a medical negligence claim. This guide provides an overview of the process for initiating a medical negligence claim in the UK, including the steps involved, key considerations, and the role of legal professionals.

UNDERSTANDING MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE
Definition

Medical Negligence: Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare professional fails to provide a standard of care that a reasonably competent practitioner would have provided under similar circumstances, resulting in harm or injury to the patient.
Types of Medical Negligence

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis: Failure to accurately diagnose a medical condition in a timely manner.
Surgical Errors: Mistakes made during surgical procedures, such as wrong-site surgery or leaving surgical instruments inside the patient.
Medication Errors: Administration of incorrect medications or dosages, leading to adverse effects or complications.
Birth Injuries: Injuries sustained by infants during childbirth due to medical errors or negligence.