Concern over Hospital Statistics

Posted on October 14, 2015

Worrying statistics emerged yesterday following an urgent review by the Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust (responsible for the Royal Oldham Hospital, Rochdale Infirmary, Fairfield General and North Manchester General). Upon review 400 instances of misdiagnosis were found, 105 of which involved the misdiagnosis of Cancer, 13 related to missed fractures and 280 to the failure to diagnose blood clots.

Pearson Solicitors are acutely aware of the impact that misdiagnoses can have upon patients and their families and have many clients that turn to us after such incidents.

A significant number of our cases involve misdiagnoses and/or the failure to diagnose serious medical conditions that are treatable upon early diagnosis. These range from the failure to correctly diagnose those suffering with cancer, through to the failure to identify blood clots and bone fractures.

“It is often the case that prompt diagnosis leads to more effective treatment,” said clinical negligence solicitor Jaqueline White. “This can sometime be the difference between life and death in many cases. So often, as part of our investigations we receive evidence from medical experts stating that an earlier diagnosis (of not only cancer but also other serious life threatening conditions such as blood clots) would have saved a life. Conveying this to the family of a patient, or even the patient themselves, is a difficult and emotional duty.

“It is important that the results of internal hospital investigations relating to patient safety and quality of care, such as this, are made public and that those who feel that they have fallen victim to misdiagnoses come forward and seek legal advice.

“When you put your trust in the medical profession challenging their decisions is not always an easy decision, but more often than not it is the wish to prevent further instances that prompts our clients to seek a claim against the doctor or hospital.”

For further information on your medical negligence claim contact us for a no obligation chat on 0161 785 3500

Please note that the information and opinions contained in this article are not intended to be comprehensive, nor to provide legal advice. No responsibility for its accuracy or correctness is assumed by Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd or any of its members or employees. Professional legal advice should be obtained before taking, or refraining from taking, any action as a result of this article.

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