If you or a loved one has experienced avoidable harm due to a medical professional’s negligence in diagnosing cancer, you may be able to pursue a delayed cancer diagnosis compensation claim. We understand the emotional and physical impact of a late cancer diagnosis and are committed to helping you through the compensation process.
Contact our empathetic clinical negligence lawyers on 0333 3580 583 or complete the online enquiry form to discuss your case.
Understanding Late Cancer Diagnosis
When cancer is typically diagnosed, the patient will be informed of the cancer stage (rated on a 1-4 scale). Cancer staging helps identify how far the cancer has spread in the body and determine the corresponding treatment plan.
If cancer is not diagnosed in a timely manner, cancer that was perhaps at the early stages will have progressed to a more advanced stage, making it more challenging to manage and potentially reducing the chances of successful treatment.
Common Causes of Delayed Cancer Diagnosis
Late diagnosis of cancer can occur as a result of various scenarios, including:
- Missed symptoms: Healthcare professionals may overlook early signs of cancer, which delays diagnosis and treatment.
- Inadequate screening: Failures in routine screening processes can be a missed opportunity for early detection — such as smear tests
- Misinterpretation of test results: Incorrect reading of test results can delay the diagnosis, allowing the cancer to progress.
At Friends Legal, we understand how difficult a cancer diagnosis is, especially when it’s given in the later stages. If you have dealt with any of the above situations, get in touch to discuss your claim.
“A diagnosis delay of just one month can decrease cancer survival by 10%.”
The difference in survival rates based on the detection stage is staggering for some types of cancers, particularly bowel cancer. If diagnosed at the earliest stage, more than 9 in 10 people survive bowel cancer for five years or more. This drops dramatically to just 1 in 10 people surviving when bowel cancer is diagnosed at the most advanced stage.
As such, the NHS doubled its spending on cancer awareness campaigns last year to prioritise early detection. This push proved successful, with the highest proportion on record (100,000 patients) being diagnosed with cancer at either stage 1 or stage 2.
Despite these positive improvements, many still receive their diagnosis too late. If a medical professional has failed to diagnose cancer for you or a relative, reach out to our team today. Our clinical negligence lawyers are here to help you every step of the way. Please phone us for a free initial consultation on 0333 3580 583 to discuss your case.
How to Establish Negligence For a Delayed Cancer Diagnosis Claim
Pursuing a claim for late cancer diagnosis requires skilled legal expertise. Friends Legal’s specialist solicitors will meticulously gather evidence, including medical records and expert testimonies, to build a strong case for your claim.
We aim to secure the maximum possible compensation tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring justice and financial support for the challenges you’ve faced.
Cancer Late Diagnosis Claims — How We Can Help
Victims of late cancer diagnosis may be eligible for compensation that covers any medical costs, emotional suffering, and loss of income. Although all claims are unique to the individuals’ case, an average of £110,000 was awarded to more than 280 NHS patients for either a cancer misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis in 2021.
The compensation amount is not a one-size-fits-all and will depend on factors such as:
- Severity of impact: The level of physical and psychological damage caused by the late diagnosis.
- Life alteration: The effect on the individual’s quality of life, including enduring pain, suffering, and loss of life enjoyment.
- Financial implications: Any economic losses incurred due to the late diagnosis, like lost wages and additional care needs.
No Win, No Fee Cancer Negligence Claims
Friends Legal believes in legal support for all those affected by a late cancer diagnosis, which is why we offer a ‘No Win, No Fee‘ arrangement. We strive to make sure that financial issues don’t hinder you from pursuing your claim.
Time Limits For Late Cancer Diagnosis Claims
As with other medical negligence cases, the standard time limit for filing a late cancer diagnosis claim in Scotland is three years from the date you became aware of the diagnosis. Whether you personally have been given a delayed cancer diagnosis, or if you’ve lost a loved one as a result of a late diagnosis, our solicitors can help. If you require clarification on the timeframe for your particular case, reach out to our clinical negligence team today for bespoke advice.
Legal Support for Delayed Cancer Diagnosis — Speak With Our Clinical Negligence Lawyers Now
To find out more about making a compensation claim for a late diagnosis of cancer, contact Friends Legal today. Our legal professionals will support you in this challenging time and strive to secure the compensation you deserve. Call us now at 0333 3580 583 or complete our online form, and we will be in touch.
