Between 2019 and 2024, the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust paid over £70 million to settle 34 child medical negligence claims—the highest of any NHS trust in London. This significant figure has raised concerns about the quality of paediatric care within the trust.
Understanding Medical Negligence
Medical negligence occurs when healthcare professionals fail to provide the standard of care expected, leading to patient harm. In paediatric cases, this can involve misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, surgical errors, or failure to recognise serious conditions. Such lapses can result in severe consequences, including long-term disability or death.
Factors Contributing to High Payouts
Several factors may explain the substantial payouts by the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust:
- Delayed Resolution of Cases: The trust has indicated that many of these claims pertain to incidents from as far back as 20 to 25 years ago. Medical negligence cases often take years to resolve due to their complexity, contributing to the high compensation figures in recent years.
- Nature of Claims: Common causes for these claims include failures and delays in treatment and diagnosis. Such shortcomings have led to significant compensation payouts, reflecting the severity of the harm caused to young patients.
Impact on Families
The consequences of medical negligence are profound. Families endure emotional distress, financial burdens, and the challenge of caring for affected children. For instance, in a tragic case, four-year-old Daniel Klosi died of sepsis after being sent home twice from the Royal Free Hospital with instructions to take Calpol. An investigation revealed missed symptoms and failures to conduct necessary tests, leading to a settlement and apology from the hospital.
Seeking Compensation
If your child has suffered due to medical negligence, it’s crucial to understand your rights. Compensation can cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and provide financial support for future care needs. The amount awarded depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, the impact on the child’s life, and associated financial losses.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
Compensation amounts vary based on individual circumstances. For example, cases involving severe brain injuries resulting in lifelong care needs can result in multi-million-pound settlements.
Conversely, less severe cases may result in lower amounts. It’s essential to consult with legal experts to assess the potential value of your claim.
How National Claims Can Assist
Navigating a medical negligence claim can be complex. National Claims can connect you with experienced solicitors who specialise in this area. They will guide you through the process, ensuring you understand your options and helping you pursue the compensation your family deserves.
Preventative Measures by the Trust
In response to these issues, the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust has implemented measures to improve patient care. This includes enhanced training for staff, particularly in recognising serious conditions in children, and emphasising the importance of listening to parents’ concerns. The trust has expressed a commitment to learning from past mistakes to prevent future incidents.
Conclusion
The substantial payouts by the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust highlight the critical importance of maintaining high standards in paediatric care. While compensation can provide some relief to affected families, preventing such incidents through improved medical practices and attentive care remains paramount.
Contact National Claims today, and we will put you in touch with an expert solicitor who can guide you through the claims process.📞 Call us now free 0800 029 3849 or 📩 Submit an online enquiry to speak to our team. Your safety and well-being matter, and we’re here to help.
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