Have a question? Call us on 0800 1979 345
This article was published on July 31st, 2017
The Government has postponed its decision on whether lawyer fees for clinical negligence cases should be capped.
The decision was originally expected to be made public knowledge before parliament went into its annual summer recess, however, the results of the decision are now expected ‘in due course’.
The Medical and Dental Defence Union (MDDUS) has warned that this delay could cost doctors, patients and the taxpayer alike. It has also proposed that Government implements a cap in cases up to the value of £250,000 as soon as possible.
Initial discussions to introduce the caps ended in May 2017, however, these discussions only applied to cases valued at £25,000 or less. a figure, which has been deemed too low by many leading medical bodies, to make any significant difference to skyrocketing legal costs for clinical negligence cases.
Chief Executive of the MDDUS, Chris Kenny said: “Almost three years have passed since the government said they were going to take urgent steps to halt the runaway increase in claimant costs in medical negligence cases.”
“But words have not been matched by deeds and today’s non-announcement is another step backwards.”
“Patients, professionals and taxpayers alike are paying – and will continue to pay – the price for this wholly avoidable planning blight.”
“If the Government is really serious about reducing the cost and stress burdens of unjustified litigation on the NHS, then it needs a joined-up approach to tort reform, the discount rate and the consequent need for GP reimbursement to account for increased indemnity costs.”
“A robust cap in cases of up to £250,000 in value is an essential part of that programme. There is no case for further delay.”
Pursuing a clinical negligence claim can often be a complex process which is why it is so important to find a solicitor that specialises in this area. Too many firms add clinical negligence into their general portfolio of personal injury practitioners without having clinical negligence solicitors.
At Thorneycroft Solicitors we have a dedicated team who specialise in this field alone. We work with the most experienced medical experts, ensuring their involvement from the outset of the claim to offer advice and guidance.
If you think you may be eligible to make a claim for clinical negligence contact a member of our team of solicitors today by calling us for free on 0800 1979 345 or completing our simple online enquiry form.