It is not a new problem. Go back to 2013 and you will find reports published stating the NHS is simply “bad at dealing with complaints”. Fast forward to 2016 and it is clear the NHS is wasting far too much. Funds are being “spent on litigation” and it seems the NHS are STILL receiving the same criticisms. As it stands, the future of the NHS looks precariously balanced. This is the result of poor management, underfunding and a lack of qualified staff. What more does the NHS need to ensure the service runs efficiently and professionally?
Deny, delay, defend
“Deny, delay, defend” is a well utilised term with the NHS. It refers to the culture of the NHS taking unnecessary time to address claims of negligence. It also refers to the nature of any claims being denied in order to deter claimants from continuing their claim. These force the claimants to fight tooth and nail to prove liability.
This poor taste tactic has garnered extreme criticism over the adverse affect it is having on NHS spending. Costs are rising because of the countless hours used defending claims. These could be prevented by addressing the source straight away.
An NAO (National Audit Office) study shows costs running almost twice as high as they were in 2014. This ridiculous amount prooves a rapid change in culture is necessary to help save the NHS from amassing further problems.
Beating the culture
Solicitors have a difficult but not insurmountable task when it comes to dealing with the NHS. While the litigators in charge of defending the institution commonly deny allegations before delaying the course of justice, there are many dedicated firms (Scott Rees & Co included) used to the tactics and strive to reduce case times as best we can.
Scott Rees & Co has a dedicated medical negligence department ensuring cases of this nature are dealt with efficiently. Medical negligence cases often have serious consequences. It is not uncommon to see medical injuries include:
- Chronic Pain Disorders
- Broken Bones
- Partial Or Total Paralysis
- Brain Injuries
- Spinal Injuries
- Amputation
- Severe Illnesses
Recovering from any of these problems can take years and require prolonged care. There is also the possibility that you will have to adapt your lifestyle to cope with your sustained injuries.