Cancer claims are likely to rise in the wake of the Covid-19 crisis
The Law Society has told medical accident lawyers to prepare for an increased number of cancer claims resulting from the fact that cancer testing and treatment has been sidelined during the Covid-19 pandemic.
A leading medical journal predicts that delays in cancer treatment since the pandemic took hold could result in 3,500 avoidable cancer deaths in England during the course of the next five years.
As it was, even before coronavirus arrived in the UK the NHS was struggling to keep up with demand. And those lengthy waiting lists are now set to double as a result of the pandemic. This could see more than 8 million people waiting for cancer treatment.
Speedy detection and treatment of cancer is critical. When tests and treatment are deferred it can cause the condition to deteriorate and impact on the patient’s prognosis.
This is likely to result in a spike of cancer claims based on allegations of clinical negligence by the NHS.
Compensation is awarded on a case by case basis. For cancer claims to succeed it is necessary to show not only that the NHS was negligent, but that the negligence has directly impacted upon the patient’s condition. Medical accident lawyers will need to consider whether the NHS is at fault and whether earlier testing or treatment would have produced a different end result.
We will also have to see how the courts respond to cancer claims that arise due to the impact of Covid-19 given that NHS resourcing is a key issue and difficult decisions had to be made in a time of crisis.
If you feel you may have a cancer claim and wish to know where you stand, or you would like details of our no win, no fee funding option, then please call our free legal helpline 0333 888 0412 or send us an email.
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Maddy Lawrence
“With the premature death of our eldest daughter, as it turned out, by clinical negligence, we were facing a very difficult journey both in proving fault and keeping heart and soul together. That we were able to, in terms of the fault element, was down to our professional legal team. They provided clear, calm and compassionate advice which got us through a horrendous inquest and subsequent legal maneuverers. They, in short, were magnificent and we are extremely grateful that we had them on our side.”
Great firm!
“I had an experience with Oliver Thorne who was nothing but helpful with settling my claim. He was very patient and professional as well as making sure I was happy and content throughout the whole process! Would highly recommend him if you’re looking for a solicitor!”
Compassionate, thorough, and outstanding legal support thus far
”Jade was incredibly friendly, taking the time to ask all the right questions and thoroughly investigate our case. Unlike previous solicitors, who dismissed us, Jade and the team at Slee Blackwell delved deeper and gave us renewed hope. We are extremely grateful for the dedication and professionalism in fighting for us. I would recommend Slee Blackwell to anyone in need of legal assistance.”
Mesh claim
“I cannot thank the team enough there understanding and empathy and the knowledge is outstanding. Caroline has been supportive every step of the way, she has informed me and kept me updated how the claim has progressed she has also had great understanding around my mental health and the physical damage I have occurred. I cannot thank the team enough. The team made this experience easier for me to deal with my emotional distress and pain.”
Thank you
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Exceptional Service
“I have received expert advice throughout my case, the attention to detail is second to none. Their professional outlook and relatability means that I always recommend the firm. When I was unclear of any information or possible outcomes they took the time to speak with me on a personal level, confirming our conversation through email, I feel supported and understood and most of all they are empathetic, something that is often missing from large firms.”
Friendly, professional, knowledgeable.
“Oliver assisted me in the aftermath of my father’s sudden death in hospital. He helped me to draught my initial letter of complaint to the health authority, represented me and my mother at the inquest and ultimately succeeded in bringing a successful claim. I always felt I could approach Oliver with any questions and he would explain the legal processes in an understandable way. I would not hesitate to recommend him should anyone find themselves in a similar unfortunate position.”
Excellent solicitor
“I cannot recommend this firm highly enough and especially Caroline who is professional approachable and thorough, she works tirelessly and is a real credit to the firm, you are not made to feel like just a number as with other firms, it’s a pleasure to have such an excellent solicitor to represent you when you have gone through so much she is so understanding and knowledgeable.”