Cancer misdiagnosis can turn lives upside down. Whether it’s a failure to diagnose cancer or a delayed cancer diagnosis, the impact is often profound and life-altering. If you or a loved one has been affected by a misdiagnosis of cancer in Scotland, it is crucial to consult our medical negligence solicitors, who specialise in cancer negligence claims.
At Friends Legal, we can guide you through the claims process, fight for your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our friendly team on 0333 3580 583 or complete the online enquiry form, and we’ll get back to you right away.
Understanding Cancer Misdiagnosis
When cancer is misdiagnosed or diagnosed late, the consequences can be devastating, leading to worsened health outcomes and emotional distress. In such cases, those who have suffered a cancer misdiagnosis may be entitled to compensation for their pain, suffering, and financial losses.
The expert clinical negligence lawyers at Friends Legal understand the gravity of misdiagnosed cancer and are dedicated to supporting those impacted by such medical errors.
Types of Cancer Misdiagnosis
Misdiagnosed cancer can occur in many ways, including:
- Incorrect diagnosis: Medical professionals may mistakenly diagnose cancer when it’s not present.
- Delayed cancer diagnosis: Cancer can progress to more advanced stages if not diagnosed quickly.
- Misclassification of cancer type: Errors in identifying the specific type of cancer can result in inappropriate treatment plans.
“50,000 missed cancer diagnosis during the pandemic.”
The prevalence of cancer misdiagnosis is a serious concern. Studies have indicated a significant rate of misdiagnosis, with a staggering 40% of cases initially missed.
Not only this, but the after-effects of the pandemic have impacted this further. With limited GP appointments made available during this time — most of which were telephone-based — it’s not surprising that there were 33% fewer people diagnosed with stage one cancer between March and June 2020 than the year before.
Cancer is a complex disease that requires prompt treatment for optimal outcomes. Our clinical negligence team is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us on 0333 3580 583 to discuss your case.
Cancer Negligence Claims in Scotland
Negligence in cancer misdiagnosis involves a breach of standard medical care, such as failure to recognise symptoms or misreading tests. These oversights can drastically affect treatment results.
Commonly Misdiagnosed Cancers
While any type of cancer can be misdiagnosed, certain cancers are more frequently misdiagnosed due to their symptoms and complexities:
- Breast cancer: Lumps or abnormalities in breast tissue can be misinterpreted as benign masses or other non-cancerous conditions.
- Lung cancer: Coughing, chest pain, and breathlessness can be wrongly attributed to other respiratory conditions.
- Prostate cancer: Prostate cancer misdiagnosis can occur due to the absence of symptoms in early stages or the similarity of symptoms to other non-cancerous conditions.
- Skin cancer: Melanoma can be overlooked or misdiagnosed as a benign skin lesion.
How to Establish Negligence Misdiagnosed Cancer
To succeed in a cancer misdiagnosis claim in Scotland, you must establish that the medical professional responsible for your care breached their duty of care, resulting in harm or worsened health outcomes. This requires expert medical opinion and supporting evidence to demonstrate that the misdiagnosis was avoidable and not in line with acceptable medical standards.
Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims — How We Can Help
To pursue compensation, you will need the assistance of experienced medical negligence solicitors who specialise in cancer negligence claims. At Friends Legal, our specialist clinical negligence solicitors will gather the necessary evidence to support your case.
With our expertise, we will negotiate on your behalf and seek the maximum compensation for your circumstances. We are committed to guiding you through the process and securing fair cancer misdiagnosis compensation amounts.
Compensation for Misdiagnosed Cancer
Claimants in misdiagnosed cancer cases may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of income, among other damages.
The compensation awarded in cancer misdiagnosis claims varies depending on several factors, including severity of harm, impact on life, and financial losses. Average estimates for cancer negligence cases caused by the NHS are around £350,000.
No Win, No Fee Clinical Negligence Lawyers
We strive to help anyone who has suffered a misdiagnosis of cancer, which is why our ‘No Win, No Fee‘ arrangement ensures that financial concerns do not stop you from moving forward with a cancer misdiagnosis claim.
Time Limits For Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims
In Scotland, the general time limit for a cancer negligence claim is three years from the date of knowledge of the misdiagnosis or from the date the negligence occurred. It is crucial to seek legal advice promptly to ensure your claim falls within the specified time frame.
Cancer Misdiagnosis Legal Advice — Speak With Our Medical Negligence Solicitors Today
If you or a loved one have been affected by a cancer misdiagnosis, reach out to Friends Legal today for a free consultation. Let our team support you through this incredibly difficult time and get you the compensation you deserve. Phone our team directly on 0333 3580 583 or complete the form, and we will call you at a convenient time.
