Diagnosis of cancer is devastating for the patient and their family at any time, but this news can be even more distressing if there has been a delay in discovery of their illness.
Quite often no-one is to blame for an apparent delay in diagnosis of cancer. However, sometimes things do go wrong; for example, delays can be caused by a GP failing to refer a patient to hospital for further investigation. Hospitals can also be at fault by failing to follow up test results or incorrectly reporting x-rays. For some people, late diagnosis of cancer can mean that their prospects of recovery are diminished or the treatment they need is more extensive than if their condition had been recognised sooner.
We have considerable experience in dealing with clinical negligence claims arising from delay in diagnosis of cancer including:
- Bone cancer
- Brain tumour
- Bowel / colorectal cancer
- Breast cancer
- Liver cancer
- Lung cancer
- Oral / mouth cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Spinal tumour
What you need to show in order to have a successful claim
You will need to show that the treatment that you received was substandard and that this has had an adverse impact on your recovery.
Susan Booker has particular experience in dealing with claims involving delay in diagnosis of cancer. Susan’s cases include M v Dr W where the claimant obtained compensation after a GP delayed in referring her to hospital for further investigation for breast cancer.
Further information
If you would like further information then please contact Susan Booker
You may also find the following websites helpful:
MacMillan Cancer Support
Cancer Research UK