The first step is determining if you have suffered due to negligence on behalf of a healthcare provider. If you have suffered injuries and feel your healthcare provider may have been at fault, it is at least worth speaking with an expert.
You should contact a solicitor with experience in medical negligence. They will be able to assess your case and determine whether medical negligence is likely to have occurred.
Your medical records will be obtained and carefully reviewed by your solicitor. This can be a difficult process, as it requires a thorough understanding of medical procedures and protocols. Your medical files will also be reviewed by the healthcare provider and their legal team. The healthcare provider’s legal team will be looking for evidence that contradicts your claim. As part of the medical negligence claims process, you may be required to undergo an assessment by one or more expert consultants. This will usually be a medical expert, who will assess the extent of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life. This expert will also provide an opinion on the cause of your injuries and whether the healthcare provider’s actions were negligent. You and your circumstances might also be assessed by other types of experts such as an occupational health therapist.
If the healthcare provider admits liability, your medical negligence solicitor will begin the process of settlement negotiations. This is an opportunity for both sides to agree on a settlement amount that is fair and reasonable for both parties. If a settlement is reached, the case will conclude.
If settlement negotiations are not successful, your case will go to trial. This can be a lengthy and stressful process, but it’s important to remember that your medical negligence solicitor will be there to guide you through every step. The trial will be held in front of a judge who will decide on the outcome of your case.
Once your medical negligence claim has been resolved, whether through settlement or trial, it’s important to move on with your life as best you can. You will have received the compensation that you are entitled to and you can now begin to focus on your recovery and rebuilding your life.
You can also take some solace in that your action put a spotlight on an inadequacy in the healthcare system that can now be resolved in order to protect others.