Delay related medical negligence

Delays in medical treatment or diagnosis can have serious consequences, sometimes making conditions harder to treat, reducing life expectancy, or causing permanent injury. We help clients whose health has been affected by delayed care, ensuring they receive the compensation and support they need.

How Delay Related Medical Negligence Claims Arise

Medical negligence due to delay can occur in many ways, including:

• Delayed diagnosis – conditions such as cancer, heart disease, or stroke not identified promptly.

• Late referral – GPs or specialists failing to refer patients for urgent investigations.

• Postponed treatment – surgery, chemotherapy, or other interventions delayed beyond what is clinically acceptable.

• Failure to act on test results – abnormal blood tests, scans, or imaging not followed up in time.

• Emergency care delays – waiting times or mismanagement in A&E that worsen outcomes.

How we can help

At Taylor Rose, our dedicated Medical Negligence team has extensive experience handling a wide range of complex medical claims, many of which we handle on a no win, no fee basis.

We understand how distressing these claims can be, and we pride ourselves on approaching each one with care, compassion, and sensitivity.

Our experienced lawyers are supported by a strong network of resources and expert connections.

Many of our team are accredited by AvMA (Action Against Medical Accidents), the charity for patient safety and justice or the Law Society’s specialist medical negligence panel.

Who Can You Bring A Claim Against

Claims for delayed medical care may be made against:

• NHS Trusts.

• Private Hospitals, Clinicians and Clinics – for delayed procedures or diagnosis in private care.

• GPs or community healthcare providers

Consequences of Delay-Related Medical Negligence

The impact of delays in care can be severe:

• Worsened prognosis.

• Permanent injury or disability

• Reduced life expectancy

• Emotional and psychological effects

• Financial Key Challenges in Delay-Related Claims

Proving Causation

• The most critical aspect is showing that the delay directly caused harm or worsened the condition.

• Expert medical evidence is usually required to demonstrate that earlier treatment would have materially improved the outcome.

Complexity of Medical Records

Delay-related claims often involve reviewing multiple sets of medical records, referral letters, and test results to establish the timeline and breach of duty.

NHS vs Private Care

Claims against the NHS follow specific protocols under clinical negligence law, whereas private care claims may involve different procedures and contractual considerations.

Time Limits for Delay-Related Claims

• Generally, you have 3 years from the date of the negligent delay, or from when you first became aware that it caused harm, to start a claim.

• For children, the 3-year period starts at 18 years of age.

• For those lacking mental capacity, no limitation applies until capacity is regained.

• If a patient has died, the estate or dependants will have 3 years from the date of death or knowledge of negligence.

Speak to Us Today

If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to delayed medical treatment or diagnosis, our experienced medical negligence solicitors are here to help. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation to understand your options and pursue the compensation you deserve.