At Marley Solicitors, we are proud to support the residents of Wirksworth and the surrounding Derbyshire area with expert legal advice, especially when it comes to sensitive matters such as GP negligence. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a mistake or oversight by a general practitioner, you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
In this article, we explore what GP negligence involves, how to recognise it, and what steps to take if you believe you have a case. With medical negligence claims being both complex and emotionally challenging, it is essential to have the right legal team on your side.
What is GP negligence?
GP negligence occurs when a general practitioner fails to provide an acceptable standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. GPs are often the first point of contact within the NHS, which means their role is vital in identifying, diagnosing and managing various health conditions.
Negligence may arise from errors such as:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Failure to refer a patient to a specialist
- Incorrect or inappropriate treatment
- Inadequate examination or history taking
- Prescription errors
- Failing to act on test results
These mistakes can lead to prolonged suffering, the worsening of a condition or, in severe cases, life-altering consequences.
Examples of GP negligence cases
To better understand what may constitute GP negligence, consider the following scenarios:
- A patient repeatedly visits their GP with ongoing chest pain. The GP prescribes antacids without referring the patient for further investigation. Later, the patient is diagnosed with advanced heart disease that could have been treated earlier.
- A GP prescribes an antibiotic that the patient has previously reported an allergy to. The patient suffers a severe reaction and is hospitalised.
- A lump is reported during a routine examination. The GP fails to refer the patient for cancer screening. Months later, the cancer is diagnosed at a more advanced and less treatable stage.
Each of these situations demonstrates a breach in the standard duty of care expected from a GP, which could give rise to a claim.
How to prove GP negligence
To bring a successful GP negligence claim in Wirksworth or elsewhere in the UK, three key elements must be established:
- Duty of care: This is straightforward, as all GPs owe a legal duty of care to their patients.
- Breach of duty: You must show that the GP acted in a way that no reasonable professional would have done under similar circumstances.
- Causation: It must be clear that this breach of duty directly caused or significantly contributed to your injury or worsening condition.
Medical negligence cases often rely on expert evidence to demonstrate that the care provided fell below the accepted standard and that this caused harm.
Time limits for GP negligence claims
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the negligent act or from when you became aware of it to bring a claim. There are exceptions, such as:
- If the injured party is under 18, the three-year limit begins on their 18th birthday.
- If the person lacks mental capacity, the time limit may be suspended.
It is always advisable to seek legal advice as soon as possible so that your solicitor can start gathering evidence while details remain fresh.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Wirksworth?
At Marley Solicitors, we have a dedicated medical negligence team with extensive experience in GP negligence claims. Based in Wirksworth, we understand the importance of accessible, compassionate legal support for our local community.
Here is why many clients in Wirksworth and across Derbyshire trust us with their claims:
- Local expertise: We are familiar with the regional healthcare system and local NHS providers.
- No win, no fee: Most GP negligence claims can be handled on a no win, no fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront.
- Personalised approach: We take the time to listen and support you throughout every step of your case.
- Strong track record: Our solicitors have secured substantial settlements for clients who have suffered avoidable harm.
The claims process explained
If you believe you have a GP negligence case in Wirksworth, here is what the process usually involves:
- Initial consultation: We will discuss your case, listen to your experience and assess whether you have a potential claim.
- Investigation: We will obtain your medical records and, where necessary, consult independent medical experts.
- Letter of claim: If the evidence supports your case, we will send a formal letter of claim to the GP or their insurer.
- Response: The defendant has four months to investigate and respond, either admitting liability or denying it.
- Settlement or litigation: Many claims settle out of court, but if necessary, we are fully prepared to pursue your case through the courts.
Common questions about GP negligence
How much compensation can I receive for GP negligence?
Compensation varies depending on the severity and impact of the injury. It may include general damages for pain and suffering, and special damages for financial losses such as lost earnings, travel costs or future care needs.
Do I need to go to court?
Not always. Many cases are resolved through negotiation. We will aim to settle your case fairly and efficiently, but we are ready to go to court if needed.
Can I claim on behalf of someone else?
Yes, you may be able to claim on behalf of a child or someone who lacks the mental capacity to handle their own affairs.
Supporting the Wirksworth community
Marley Solicitors is committed to supporting individuals and families across Wirksworth with trusted, expert legal services. We know how distressing it can be to realise that a trusted GP has let you down. That is why we combine legal excellence with a compassionate, client-focused approach.
Our goal is not just to win compensation, but to help our clients achieve justice, closure and support for their recovery.
Contact Marley Solicitors in Wirksworth today
If you believe you or a loved one has been affected by GP negligence, do not delay. Contact Marley Solicitors today for a free, no obligation consultation. We are here to help you understand your options and take the first step toward justice.
Call us or complete our online enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch promptly.
