4 Theatre St, Norwich NR2 1QY
01603 214 220
Cancer
Delays in the diagnosis of cancer are some of the most common medical negligence cases we see.
Despite significant advances in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, errors are still made. Whilst a diagnosis of cancer is devastating for individuals and their families, the devastation is compounded by misdiagnosis and delays in diagnosis, resulting in treatment delays that may have a detrimental effect on outcomes.
Cancer compensation claims can be complex. They involve analysing the GP’s processes when assessing symptoms or scrutinising the care given by oncologists, radiologists and surgeons. These cases often rely on robust independent medical evidence that considers the consequences of negligence. The strength of this evidence is important because it helps to place a value on the amount of compensation awarded.
Our expert medical negligence lawyers provide sensitive and timely legal advice to people with cancer compensation claims.
Examples of cancer claims:
- Failure by a GP to recognise symptoms and refer a patient to cancer specialists
- Failings in screening programmes
- Samples wrongly interpreted by pathologists
- Inadequate surgery to fully remove tumours
- Poor palliative care
- Misdiagnosis of cancer leading to unnecessary treatment
If the cancer is diagnosed late, undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or improperly treated, you may have a compensation claim. Get in touch with our expert lawyers to see how we can help.
Telephone: 01603 214 220
Cancer Medical Negligence and Misdiagnosis Case Studies
Cancer Medical Negligence
The deceased was receiving treatment from a local hospital. It was alleged that they did not properly diagnose and treat his cancer. It was accepted by the hospital that an earlier diagnosis should have been made but they denied this would have made much difference to the treatment and eventual outcome. An Inquest took place, following which the hospital was prepared to offer an apology and provide compensation which was satisfactory.
Accident at Melanoma Misdiagnosis case study
In 2011 Mrs F was referred by her GP to hospital with a suspected melanoma of the arm. She was seen by a junior doctor who assured her it was benign but froze it off using cryotherapy.
The lesion soon returned. Mrs F was re-referred to the hospital in 2016 and on this occasion, she had a biopsy which confirmed the diagnosis of melanoma. The five-year delay however in removing the melanoma resulted in a less favourable prognosis for the client. The hospital accepted responsibility at an early stage and her case settled for £60,000.00.
Breast Cancer diagnosis missed.
Miss D was referred to the hospital with a lump in her right breast. She had a mammogram and ultrasound and was advised by the Consultant there was nothing to worry about. Miss D remained concerned and 8 months later was referred by her GP to a different hospital where they did a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy. Miss D was advised the breast lump was malignant. Unfortunately, the failure to perform a biopsy resulted in an 8-month delay in diagnosis, which has prejudiced Miss D’s chance of a cure. With Sara Westwood’s assistance, her claim has been settled in the sum of £15,000.
How we
can help you
Medical Negligence can have a wide range of effects, many of which may not be obvious immediately after an accident. With specialist accreditations with Action Against Medical Accidents (AvMA) and the Law Society, our team has represented victims in a wide range of cases.
To find out more about our expertise, please call:
01603 214 220Contact one of the team:
Sara Westwood
Partner / Head of Dispute Resolution
Specialist Personal Injury Solicitor
Simon Bransby
Chartered Legal Executive
Medical Negligence and Personal Injury
Delivering thought-leading expertise and understanding from our expert solicitors and staff.
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Expert Resolution of a Complex Medical Negligence Claim
The remainder of the claims were settled at a round-table meeting, resulting in the claimant recovering £140,000. Concerns regarding the capacity of the deceased’s son to litigate led to the pursuit of formal court approval, given the uncertainties involved.
