Hospital Negligence
The statistics suggest that the NHS is improving year by year in terms of performance and efficiency.
The Government has set specific targets in key areas and it cannot be disputed that some progress has been made:
- Accident & Emergency - most people are now seen within 4 hours
- There is a maximum of three months waiting time for heart bypass operations.
- Waiting lists generally are at an all time low.
- Deaths from cancer and coronary heart disease are falling
The future looks better for healthcare in the UK. However despite success stories, the enormous scale of the task faced by the NHS inevitably means that not everyone will have a good experience of their time in hospital.
Doctors and nurses are under tremendous strain and must keep to strict guidelines on waiting times and treatment procedures. They have deadlines and budgets to adhere to and this can lead to mistakes occurring. You can also not rule out negligent acts from medical professionals. It makes no difference whether you are a skilled hospital consultant or a junior doctor - everyone makes mistakes. Some errors are accidental - others are as a result of incompetence.
NHS Hospital complaints
If you feel that you or a member of your family has suffered in these circumstances, you should initially follow the complaints process outlined here.
However the negligence may be so serious or your case so pressing that you wish to immediately seek legal advice on your case.
We would be more than happy to speak with you about your case and have a team of medical lawyers ready to assist you with your enquiry. Contact us today for advice.
Search for your local PCT:
http://www.nhs.uk/england/authoritiestrusts/pct/default.aspx