subject: How To Proceed In A Medical Negligence Case [print this page] or maybe you have received some treatment that went wrong, then you may be entitled to claim medical negligence. In many circumstances disgruntled patients are contented with an apology, however in more serious circumstances this will not suffice. If this applies to you, you first move must be to contact an experienced medical negligence lawyer for further advice.
Do you feel confused? How can you find help? Who can advise whether your case is worth the extra worry and energy? If your suffering is minor and only requires a formal complaint, there are a few easy steps you might want to consider following.
The treatment you received wasn't fair or you believe you were ignored instead of treated. This is a kind of medical negligence (or clinical negligence as it is sometimes known) but it may not be a serious one, especially if another visit or talk to your doctor could easily resolve. The quickest and most economical option here is to write a letter to the doctor, nurse or dentist. Ask for an explanation and remember to keep a copy. You'll probably be called for an informal meeting where you'll be able to discuss the situation. Have in mind that if they accept the guilt and apologise, it doesn't mean that you have a valid claim for clinical negligence should you want to take the case further.
If you find an apology and explanation enough, you may have avoided a case of medical negligence. This can actually make the relationship with your team of doctors and/or nurses better, especially if the matter is carried out in a professional and amicable way. Also remember that you can leave comments, good or bad, at the hospital's website.
Nevertheless, if you do persue this and still believe that nothing has been solved? Should you really take the legal route and consult a medical negligence solicitor? It is advisable to contact the hospitals PALS department (Patient Advisory Services). PALS is the replacement service to that which was provided by the CHCs (Community Health Councils) these used to look at your case and refer you to a solicior where necessary. However, it is not yet confirmed if PALS will do the same.
If you are considering taking your case further, this is the time you need to talk to your clinical negligence solicitor. Medical negligence cases like this involving compensation are often complex, however your solicitor will take you through it step by step.
