Making A Complaint Against The NHS

You have a right to expect a suitable standard of care from all medical professionals, in both the private and public sector. While the level of service delivered by the NHS is normally good there are occasions when NHS negligence occurs and when this breach of the duty of care causes a personal injury, you have a right to claim for compensation.

All claims involving the NHS are dealt with by the National Health Service Litigation Authority (NHSLA), and if you are unhappy with the care received or been refused treatment your complaint should be investigated with speed.

How Do You Make A Complaint For NHS Negligence?

There are two stages to the NHS complaint process:
•    You should contact the NHS service or organisation where your complaint arises from. The hospital or Primary Care Trust (PCT) should issue you with a copy of the complaints procedure to help you.
•    If you’re unhappy with how your complaint is handled by the NHS organisation, you can refer the complaint to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsmen.
Ideally, you should register your complaint as soon as possible and within 12 months of the date of the incident you wish to complain about. However, this time limit can be extended in particular circumstances, for example if grieving left you unable to make the complaint sooner.

Medical Negligence Experts Who Can Help

Our NHS negligence solicitors can advise you on the best way to prepare for your complaint, to maximise a successful outcome for your case.

In addition, there are various bodies who are able to assist you including the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), the Independent Complaints Advocacy Service, the Citizens Advice Service and NHS Direct.

If you decide to make a complaint against the NHS, the claims process can be complicated. We are here to help make the process easier for you as well as increase your chances of a successful outcome. Contact us today for any assistance with regard to your medical negligence compensation claims – and our personal injury solicitors all work on a No Win No Fee basis for your peace of mind.