Medical Referral Errors and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome Negligence
An error in the referral process can leave a CES patient with severe disability. Talk to a specialist solicitor about making a claim for compensation.
Scan referrals and CES
A crucial part of the diagnosis process for compression of the cauda equina nerves is for the patient to undergo an MRI scan. This will confirm whether or not the nerve is being pressed upon, compromising its function.
If there is a problem with the referral process, the patient may suffer a significant delay before their diagnosis is confirmed. If their condition deteriorates during this delay, the relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having been negligent and it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the consequences of that delay.
Reasons why a delay might occur in this important process could include the following:
- The medical professional does not understand that the patient requires an MRI scan and the referral is not made
- The medical professional may understand a need for an MRI scan but not the emergency nature of the situation, meaning that a routine referral is made instead
- A hospital may not have suitable provision to carry out an MRI scan (for example, at a weekend) but fails to refer the patient to another hospital or diagnostic centre which can offer an immediate scan
Compensation for referral negligence
It is possible that a delay in a referral for an MRI scan does not have a negative impact on the patient’s long-term outcome from cauda equina syndrome.
However, sometimes it can make a dramatic impact, leaving the patient struggling with a level of disability which would not have been the case with a timely referral.
Cauda equina syndrome can be associated with loss of mobility, loss of sexual function and loss of control of both bladder and bowel.
The impact on the patient’s quality of life, financial circumstances and emotional well-being can be utterly devastating.
Where medical negligence has played a part, a successful compensation claim can help to address the patient’s challenges, such as a loss of income, the costs of care as well as the costs of treatment or equipment to manage their symptoms.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a wealth of expertise in cauda equina syndrome claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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