There is no doubting that the NHS mostly provides medical care of the highest standards. However, there are times when mistakes happen and patients receives substandard level of care from medical professionals and/or facilities while under NHS care. NHS negligence involves medical errors which cause injury or even death to a patient; it is the deviation from the standards of practice of the medical community.
How to Sue the NHS
If you or a loved one has received medical care from the NHS & suspect that you may have suffered harm due to an act of NHS negligence, our NHS solicitors can advice you on the process involved in suing the NHS for medical negligence.
If you are not sure whether you may have legitimate grounds for a claim, you want to learn more about how to sue the NHS, or are looking to discuss any other aspects of the NHS claim process, one of our specialist No Win No Fee NHS solicitors will be able to offer expert legal advice.
Time Limits for Suing the NHS
As is the case with medical negligence claims in general, there is a strict three-year time limit for NHS compensation claims. Usually, this time limit begins from the date that the incident occurred. However, since you may not have been aware of the problem at this time, you may also be able to make a claim within three years from the ‘date of knowledge’ – that is the date you became aware that your injury was due to medical negligence.
There are a few exceptions to this time limit. For instance, children cannot make a claim until their 18th birthday when the three-year time limit begins to run; before they turn 18, a parent or litigation friend can make a claim on their behalf. Claims may also be made on behalf of those with mental capacity issues who cannot make independent decisions.
Will Suing the NHS Affect My Current Treatment?
Many persons who have suffered medical negligence worry that making a claim against the facility where they currently receive medical care could affect the standard or availability of any ongoing treatment. Some even worry that it could compromise their chances of making a successful claim, but you do not need to worry because:
- NHS negligence claims do not interfere with your right to receiving quality medical care;
- Medical professionals have a duty of care towards their patients and cannot refuse you access to medical care on these grounds;
However, if you no longer feel comfortable receiving medical care from the facility or medical professional you are claiming against, you can seek alternative options.
Whatever the case may be, you can rest assured our specialist solicitors will walk you through the NHS complaints procedure and medical negligence NHS claims process to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. Call us today on 08006444240 or fill our free claims assessment form for an instant, no obligation advice from one of our friendly solicitors.
