Rising NHS delay compensation claims

We may see rising numbers of NHS delay compensation claims. Delayed treatment and delayed diagnosis are two of the most common types of medical negligence claims we represent people for, and a surge in these types of cases is a worry for all.

The fears of rising cases stems from recent findings published by the National Audit Office. They cited the issue that around 40% of medical negligence claims are for delayed diagnosis or treatment. Worryingly, they have also suggested that waiting time targets are still getting missed, and the problem is getting worse.

They said that the waiting list grew from 2.7 million to 4.2 million between 2013 and 2018 which shows the extent of the problem. This isn’t sustainable, and patient safety can be compromised when action isn’t taken quickly enough.

Worries over rising NHS delay compensation claims

We’ll likely see a rise in NHS delay compensation claims which appears to be happening because of the growing issue of longer waiting times.

Waiting times for cancer is said to be getting worse, with targets being missed across the country. This is incredibly concerning given cancer really is a ticking timebomb. The quicker the treatment and diagnoses, the better the chances of survival can be. If these targets aren’t being met, people can die.

Waiting times for planned operations and non-urgent care are said to be worsening as well. This is leaving patients suffering for longer, and in some cases, complications may develop if treatment is left too late.

There are also worries over potential proposals to relax targets for waiting times. The needs of patients must be at the forefront of any such proposals to ensure that patient safety isn’t compromised.

Can you claim compensation for delays and lengthy waiting times?

You may be eligible to claim for NHS delay compensation if you have experienced having to wait too long for a diagnosis or for treatment. If you go on to suffer more and / or suffer complications, there may be a legal case to make.

In an ideal world, the NHS can keep waiting times down and hit the targets, and patients won’t need to make a claim. But patients who do suffer have the right to claim, and when lives are turned upside down, compensation is incredibly important.

Who’s going to pay the bills when you can’t work? How is it fair for you to suffer pain and potentially lifelong complications because action wasn’t taken when it should have been?

We assess cases individually, and we can offer No Win, No Fee representation for compensation claims where the negligence arises from delays and waiting times.

For free, no-obligation advice, please contact the team.