How to Proceed as a Victim of Medical Negligence
Medical negligence leaves its victims feeling incredibly vulnerable. It could be your own story or that of a loved one, but it is all worth investigating if you feel as though a duty of care was neglected. You will naturally want answers to all of the questions rolling around your head, and figuring out where to start is the first step.
Find the Right Solicitor
An experienced firm is the place to look. Any solicitor you pick has to know how to handle a medical negligence claim, and there should be a clear indication before the initial engagement that makes this apparent. Find someone who understands the nuances of such intimate dealings, like P.A. Duffy & Co Solicitors, and who will stand by your side without judgment and focus on finding the facts. This is necessary to facilitate the best possible outcome, and it will give you the confidence to keep going when motivation is low. Having knowledge and facts on your side is always going to be a strength.
Get Your Facts in Order
Facts first, evidence later. This is a good motto to work with when trying to navigate the vast expanse of the legal world and medical negligence reports. Write down a timeline of what happened, how you perceived events took place, and where the negligence was most apparent. Include any aftereffects like mental health problems and include every symptom that is still present that supports why you are making the claim in the first place.
Now, Evidence
Once the facts have been firmly secured, it is time to seek out the evidence that backs up what you are saying. This could be anything from medical records to witness statements, and your solicitor will help you find out exactly what is appropriate and what is less relevant too.
Make an Official Complaint
There is always a timeline for how long you have to make an official complaint to the offending body. Regardless of where you are making the notice, there will be a specific policy to follow and that is what you need to find out. It is likely that there will be forms and declarations in order to move things forward, and the sooner these are completed, the better. This official notice will set things into motion and be the start of the journey that will hopefully bring you some peace and resolution.
What Should the Complaint Include?
There are lots of things that you will need to put into this document, including the following:
- The date and time and medical treatment that has brought about the complaint.
- Details of where it happened.
- The names of the people involved.
- What your ideal outcome will be post resolution.
- Anything that is a specific question about what happened, as long as it is relevant.
Being a victim of medical negligence is a traumatic experience. If you feel as though someone you entrusted with your health has done you wrong, then it is time to take action. Gather the facts and move forward with conviction.
