The winter period places additional pressure and demand on hospitals all over the country, with a higher footfall of patients through the door and increased seasonal illnesses. Recent NHS England figures show that hospitals are “on high alert” this winter, with flu and norovirus cases rising alongside other winter illnesses. In conjunction to this, staff absences and other pressures have also contributed to a busier department and higher bed occupancy.
Understanding how these pressures can affect patient care and knowing when care falls below the standard you are entitled to, is important for anyone navigating healthcare during this winter.
How Can Winter Pressures Contribute to Medical Negligence
During the winter months, hospitals year on year do see an increased demand particularly in emergency departments, this winter alone England hospitals has seen a 20% increase in positive cases of flu. Staffing levels are affected by illness or leave, meaning teams are required to work under greater pressure. The NHS consistently works hard to manage these challenges, but these continual period of stretched resources can sometimes lead to delays or communication issues.
Medical negligence does not simply occur because hospitals are busy, but winter pressures can increase the risks of:
- Delays in diagnosis or treatment
- Incomplete assessments in emergency settings
- Delays in test results or follow-up care
- Communication failures between departments
If these issues lead to avoidable harm, then that’s when concerns arise and may form the basis of a medical negligence claim.
What to Do If You Have Concerns
If you are worried about the care you’ve received during the winter period, it may help to:
- Keep a record of events and treatments
- Request copies of your medical records
- Seek early and specialist legal advice
A medical negligence solicitor like those at the Medical Law Partnership can review your situation and explain whether further steps are appropriate and what options are available to your unique circumstance.
At The Medical Law Partnership, We Always Offer a Supportive Approach
Our role is to provide clear, informed and empathetic guidance to every one of our clients. We have worked in the clinical negligence sector for over 25 years, and our expert negligence solicitors have a proven track record of securing justice and compensation for our clients. Our passion and commitment to our clients and our offering of a personal client-focused approach sets us apart – we are a “Partnership”, ensures our clients are supporting throughout the entirety of their claim journey.If you’ve been affected by anything mentioned in this blog, contact the Medical Law Partnership today for a free, no-obligation case review. Let’s explore how we can help you.