Clinical Negligence

Many medical mistakes can lead to a delay in the diagnosis of cancer, which may deprive the patient of the chance for a cure. These include treating a patient inappropriately; misreading X-rays; failure to refer a patient to a specialist; and failure to realise the importance of a patient’s complaints. Early diagnosis may mean less pain and suffering for the patient and a greater chance of survival.

Here are some examples of the cancer claims we have settled:

Delay in diagnosis of breast cancer

Hay & Kilner successfully settled a claim for £50,000 brought against a GP in respect of a failure to refer our client to hospital sooner in the presence of a sizeable breast lump. As a result of the delay in diagnosis, our client required additional treatment in the form of mastectomy and radiotherapy. She went on to develop lymphoedema which impacted her day to day activities and ability to perform her job.

Delay in diagnosis of colon cancer

Hay & Kilner recently settled a claim for £40,000 on behalf of the Estate of our client’s late wife. It was argued that a Radiologist mis-reported a barium enema which clearly demonstrated cancer of the colon. In fact, it was not until 8 months later that colon cancer was diagnosed. Had the colon cancer been diagnosed at the appropriate time, Chemotherapy would have been immediately commenced. Although this would not have prevented the spread of cancer, our client’s late wife could have avoided eight months of additional and unnecessary pain and suffering. She also underwent unnecessary major bowel surgery, resulting in the requirement of a colostomy bag.

 For further information, please contact Clare Thompson on 0192 232 8345 or email clare.thompson@hay-kilner.co.uk