Figures recently published show that the amount of damages paid by NHS Trusts in Norfolk in successful clinical negligence claims in 2018/2019 was significantly less than in 2017/2018.
In 2017/2018, more than £24m was paid out by those trusts to successful claimants in 114 claims. This fell in 2018/2019 to just under £5m, even though the number of successful claims was broadly similar at just over 100.
The Norfolk & Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust paid out £1.3m in 41 successful claims, whereas in 2017/2018 it paid out more than £8m over 49 claims. The James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust saw the largest reduction, from £10m to £2.9m. The Queen Elizabeth Hospital NHS Trust also reduced the amount of damages paid from £1.1m to around £550,000.
The reasons for the reduction are unclear, with no information about the precise type of claims compensated available within the figures. The most likely explanation, given the slight reduction in the number of successful claims, was that the claims, which could first have been reported in previous financial years, related to less severe injuries and financial loss for the patients involved.
Certain categories of claim, for instance involving a brain injury at birth where the cost of care and equipment required is very high, or where a patient suffers significant loss of earnings, loss of pension or other financial loss, will typically result in high awards of damages.
Other NHS Trusts in East Anglia, however, reported less positive figures, with increases in the amounts paid out by the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust and the Norfolk & Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust.
The figures do not shed any light on whether the standard of care provided to patients is improving, which could be a further explanation for the reduction. Trusts insist that they carry out a full investigation in the event of claims, and that they work hard to ensure that lessons are learnt. The figures do, however, emphasise that clinical negligence claims are frequently complex, often taking significant time to resolve, and it is important that anyone considering such a claim seeks advice at the earliest opportunity.
For more information on how to make a claim, visit our dedicated webpage on clinical negligence. Alternatively, our Client Relations Team will be delighted to help, and can arrange an appointment with one of our specialists. Contact us on 01603 693500 or email us using our 'Make an enquiry' form. Appointments are available at our Norwich, North Walsham and Sheringham offices.
*This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or other professional advice.
