What is a GP negligence claim?
Examples of GP negligence are misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, medication errors, failure to refer to a specialist, or improper management of a medical condition. The key aspect is proving that the GP’s actions or inactions fell below what is reasonably expected of a competent GP, causing injury or exacerbation of an existing illness.
For the vast majority of us, our first port of call when we’re feeling unwell or have been injured is to contact our GP surgery. In the UK, our GPs are either able to treat us or refer us on to specialists at hospitals for when we require more specialised care.
GPs owe a duty of care to all of their patients but there are times when errors are made and the care is substandard. This can have devastating consequences and sometimes even cost lives. Some common examples of substandard care by a treating GP are:
- Failure or delay in correctly diagnosing a medical condition
- Failure or delay in treating a particular medical condition
- Failure to monitor and follow up medical conditions or medication
- Failure or delay in referring to the hospital for specialist input and investigations
- Issuing incorrect prescriptions
- Causing injury during minor medical procedures such as injections or minor surgical procedures
The list is not exhaustive and you may have experienced other forms of negligence. Whatever this may be, to be successful with a claim against a GP, you need to show that the GP breached the duty of care owed to you and that this substandard care caused you an injury you would have otherwise avoided. This may be a new injury, or it may be increasing the severity or period of suffering of an existing injury. Sometimes it can cause the death of a loved one.
Can I claim for GP negligence?
If you suspect that your GP has acted negligently, you might be eligible for compensation.
Our team of specialist clinical negligence solicitors are able to assess if you have a claim and give you the advice and guidance on the process of bringing a claim to ensure that you recover compensation for your or your loved one’s injuries.
Contact our GP negligence claims solicitors
Have you experienced harm due to GP negligence? Reach out to the dedicated team at Stephensons for guidance and support. Our expert solicitors are experienced in handling GP negligence claims with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism. To discuss your situation, call us on 0161 696 6165 or complete our online enquiry form. We are here to listen and help you take the next steps.