'Trust me; I'm a Doctor!'

The Belfast Trust recently recalled 2,500 patients after doctors raised concerns regarding the care and treatment provided by one consultant neurologist.

It may be that some patients were diagnosed incorrectly, impacting upon the medical treatment they subsequently received.  The Belfast Trust has established a helpline for those affected (0800 980 1100) and aims complete their recall within 12 weeks.

What happens when a professional gets it wrong?

When you are referred to a consultant, you are going to see them for their particular expertise. Your expectation will be that they will know the right answers and you will get the right diagnosis and treatment. They are the expert, after all. 

If, and when, they get it wrong though, what is your legal position?

• Duty: It is well established that a hospital will owe a ‘duty of care’ to its patients.  Further, they will be ‘vicariously liable’ for the acts or omissions of their workers.

• Breach: The next question is whether that duty of care has been breached:  In layman’s terms: did they get it wrong? 

• Damage: Finally, has any loss or damage actually resulted from their breach? 

If it can be established that these elements are present in your case, then you may be entitled to be compensated by the hospital trust. 

If you think you might have a case, or perhaps you are just not sure, call us today on 028 9032 2998.  There is no charge for initial telephone advices.