Medical malpractice claims in relation to colorectal malignancy in the NHS.

Source

Department of General Surgery, Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, Acre Street, Lindlay, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD3 3EA.

Abstract

AIM:

Under the current increased financial constraints affecting the NHS, clinical negligence claims and associated compensations are constantly rising. This study's aim was to identify the magnitude, trends and causes of malpractice claims in relation to a common pathology such as colorectal malignancy in the NHS.

METHOD:

Data requests were submitted to the NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA) and to the MDU and MPS medical defence unions. Data were reviewed, categorised clinically and analysed in terms of causes and costs behind claims.

RESULTS:

Data from the MPS and MDU were unavailable. 169 claims were identified from the NHSLA database between 2003 and 2012. 123 (73%) cases had been closed, 80 (65%) of which were successful. An increasing overall claim frequency and success rate were found over the last few years. Total litigation expenses were £8.6 million, with 39% paid out as legal expenses. The commonest cause of complaint in successful claims was in relation to diagnostic delays or failures (58%, £5.1 million), with a delay or failure by the clinician to take action in response to an abnormal investigation result being a major factor. The occurrence of peri-operative complications (20%, £1.6 million) was the second commonest cause.

CONCLUSION:

Average frequency and success rates of malpractice claims in secondary care in the NHS are rising, leading to significant overall pay outs. The failure or delay in diagnosing colorectal malignancy or its postoperative complications is a common cause behind malpractice claims. Improvement in these areas could enhance patient care and reduce future claims.

TimAllenMDJD

Tuesday, September 17, 2013