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Sunday, 02 July 2006 09:27
BNN: British Nursing News Online · www.bnn-online.co.uk
Patients wait up to eight years to get compensation
At least one patient every day launches legal action against the NHS in Scotland over errors in treatment that they have received.

Secret figures reveal there were 2123 medical negligence claims against the NHS in the past five years. But only one in five has been settled.

The claims, against 116 hospitals, have cost taxpayers £2million in legal fees alone.

Lawyers, politicians and medics are calling for the introduction of a "no blame" compensation system to fast-track complaints.

Negligence lawyer Cameron Fyfe said: "Patients can wait as long as seven or eight years for a case to be settled.

"It's an intolerable strain on their health and wellbeing, and that's why a 'no blame' system would be preferable for most straightforward cases".

BMA Scotland chairman Dr Peter Terry said: "No-fault compensation with maximum financial limits would benefit doctors and patients, speeding up the process and reducing legal expenses.

"This would free up money that could be invested in developing and improving services for all patients".

SNP health spokeswoman Shona Robison said: "We're committed to looking at a no-fault compensation scheme. The only winners at present are lawyers".

The Scottish Executive said: "It can take many years for medical negligence claims to reach settlement.

"That is often due to the complex nature of the cases, the requirement to seek independent expert medical opinions and for all parties to reach agreement.

"Seventy per cent of claims do not result in a settlement".
   


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