Claiming Compensation for Meningitis Medical Negligence
If bacterial meningitis is diagnosed and treated promptly, there is a very good chance that the patient will recover. If medical professionals fail to recognise the signs and symptoms of this life-threatening illness, however, the outcome could be very different indeed.
The potential impact of late diagnosis of bacterial meningitis
If a patient survives bacterial meningitis, a delay in diagnosis can still mean that they are left with distressing and disabling symptoms including the following:
- Difficulties with vision
- Difficulties with hearing
- Problems with balance and co-ordination
- Brain damage
- Amputated limbs
The myriad ways in which such an appalling array of symptoms can affect a person's life are shocking to contemplate. A once-healthy adult may find that they are now unable to work, unable to mobilise and have become dependent on personal care.
Their personal relationships may suffer. Their quality of life will definitely suffer. Their income is likely to be devastated by an inability to work in the same way as before their illness - or at all - and they may face a future of rising care costs.
Claiming compensation
If a patient has suffered a poor outcome following negligent medical care, which would not have been the case with an appropriate level of care, they are legally entitled to make a claim for compensation.
Such a compensation claim would address not only the patient's pain and suffering, but would also take into account their financial losses. This would include loss of income as well as the costs of care where this applies.
Prompt diagnosis or suspicion of bacterial meningitis is fundamental to a good outcome. A misdiagnosis or failure of assessment resulting in delays may be regarded as negligent.
Symptoms which should prompt a medical professional to consider the possibility of bacterial meningitis would include the following:
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- A high temperature
- A stiff neck
- Lethargy
- A rash
If a medical professional suspects that a patient may be developing bacterial meningitis, investigative tests and specialist attention are required urgently.
A delay may allow the patient to suffer a deterioration which could prove fatal.
Making a claim for medical negligence
If you or a loved one are struggling with the consequences of negligent medical care, contact a specialist solicitor as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the validity of your claim and advise you as to the best next step.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with years of experience and a team of expert lawyers, all of whom are specialists in this complex field of law.
Call us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the suitability of making a claim.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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