We specialise in GP negligence claims on a no win, no fee basis. To find out if you could be entitled to compensation call our FREE legal helpline on 0333 888 0412 or send us an email.
What is GP negligence?
GP negligence claims can arise when a General Practitioner provides medical care to a patient that falls below a reasonably competent standard causing them unnecessary suffering. GPs are the first point of contact for the majority of patients in the UK. Being in the frontline they have to deal with a vast range of problems, from the trivial to the unexpectedly critical. GPs obviously cannot be expected to have the same level of specialist knowledge or expertise as a hospital consultant, but they are expected to exercise the degree of skill and care of a reasonably competent general doctor. If a GP falls below that standard and the patient’s health suffers as a consequence then that patient may be entitled to make a compensation claim.
The General Practitioner’s role
The GP’s role is to take a detailed history from their patient, examine them if required, arrange any necessary investigations, such as a blood test, and then assess how their health issues should be managed.
GPs will often be able to treat patients in their surgery and will often prescribe medication. They are responsible for advsing the patient on any need for follow up treatment and what to do if symptoms persist or worsen.
Referring patients to specialist services
If a GP feels that the patient’s healthcare issues require specialist input then the doctor can refer them to hospital or another specialist service. GPs must assess whether the matter is urgent and if there is a need for tests or investigations to be carried out.
Where a patient is referred to hospital the hospital will generally liaise with the GP and keep the GP informed of developments as it is a GP’s responsibility to remain in charge of of their patient’s treatment.
Examples of GP negligence claims
Examples of GP negligence include:
- Providing the wrong medical treatment;
- Delay in diagnosis;
- Giving an incorrect diagnosis
- Failing to refer a patient to a specialist;
- Prescribing the wrong medication;
- Failing to provide follow up services; and
- Failing to arrange investigatory tests.
One of the most common causes of a GP negligence claim arises from the failure to refer a patient on to a more specialist medical practitioner or to send the patient for a test, a scan or an x-ray. One of the GP’s key roles is to act as a gateway to other NHS services, but when this breaks down it can result in delays in diagnosing a medical condition which in turn can cause an illness to be prolonged unnecessarily. Sometimes a delay in diagnosis can have life changing, or even life limiting consequences for the unfortunate patient.
Making a GP negligence claim
When the actions (or inactions) of your GP cause or exacerbate serious health issues then you may wish to consider making a GP negligence claim for compensation. Our Legal 500 recommended team can offer you free initial guidance and provide details of No Win, No Fee funding of GP negligence claims. However it is important not to delay taking action as strict time limits apply.
Call our FREE legal helpline on 0333 888 0412 or send brief details of your GP negligence claim to us at [email protected]
What our clients say about us
We have over 1,200 reviews and an overall five-star rating on the independent legal review website, ReviewSolicitors.
Here is just a short selection of some of the reviews that our clients have left for our clinical negligence team:
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
“On behalf of all of us, we would like to thank you for your guidance, professionalism, humanity and kindness you have shown us all throughout this process. You have explained everything to us in clear and concise terms throughout and we are extremely grateful. We would have no hesitation recommending you and using your services in future. Thank you.”
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.”