GP Claims in Ireland: Misdiagnosis & Failure to Refer
Early diagnosis is crucial. When a GP fails to recognise symptoms or delays referring a patient for tests or specialist treatment, it can lead to serious health consequences and can often be a matter of life or death.
A medical negligence claim may arise where a GP’s care falls below the standard expected of a reasonably competent doctor, if it can be shown that the GP fell below the standard of care expected then negligence can be established.
Was the delay in diagnosis:
- As a result of an act or omission of the GP or
- Was the act or omission caused by the hospital (& not the GP)
A court will look at the actions taken by the GP, what, if any, scans, and other procedures the patient was sent for and what interpretation was made from the results.
Failure to Refer to a Specialist
Failure to refer can occur where a doctor does not send a patient, in a timely manner, for specialist treatment or necessary testing, resulting in further injury, delayed diagnosis, or a worsened condition.
In general, there is a two-year time limit to begin legal proceedings, although exceptions may apply.
Medical negligence claims are complex, so it is important to seek legal advice as early as possible.
If you have any questions our specialized team is here to help.
You can contact McCormack Solicitors on
Email: info@carolmccormacksolicitors.ie
Phone: 071 9621846
www.carolmccormacksolicitors.ie
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