The Role of Clinical Negligence Claims in Accessing Rehabilitation
Medical negligence lawyer and AvMA panel member, Oliver Thorne, highlights the important role that the legal process plays in facilitating rehabilitation for victims of medical accidents.
At Slee Blackwell Solicitors, we regularly collaborate with case management professionals, such as those at Blue Skies Case Management & Care, to help ensure clients access the rehabilitation they need. This is made possible through the clinical negligence claims process.
Clinical negligence claims are essential for ensuring that patients harmed by substandard medical care can access the rehabilitation they need to recover and improve their quality of life. A successful clinical negligence claim not only provides financial compensation to affected patients but also facilitates a comprehensive package of care, ensuring they have access to effective rehabilitation services.
Clinical negligence occurs when healthcare providers fail to meet the expected standard of care in their profession, resulting in harm to the patient. This can involve errors in diagnosis, treatment, surgical procedures, or even omissions that lead to injury or a worsening of a condition. When patients suffer due to negligence, they have the right to pursue a legal claim for compensation.
Accessing rehabilitation for patients can be challenging due to various barriers, including financial constraints. However, a successful legal claim can help overcome obstacles and secure funds for private rehabilitation services, which are often more readily available and comprehensive than public options.
One of the significant benefits of making a clinical negligence claim is being able to obtain funding for rehabilitation services. Rehabilitation can be expensive, particularly when it involves specialised therapies, long-term care, and advanced medical equipment. A successful claim allows patients to access the financial resources required to cover these expenses, ensuring they receive the best possible care. This funding is vital for maximising recovery and improving the patient's quality of life.
Early rehabilitation has been shown to significantly enhance recovery outcomes for patients with serious injuries. By addressing rehabilitation needs promptly, patients can often return to their daily activities, work, and family life more quickly. This not only benefits the patient but also reduces the overall financial burden on compensators, as effective rehabilitation can lower the costs associated with long-term care and support.
In cases with complex rehabilitation needs, legal claims often require the involvement of a case manager. Case managers assess, plan, implement, coordinate, monitor, and evaluate the services required to meet the patient’s health, social care, and occupational needs. Their involvement ensures that the rehabilitation process is tailored to the individual's specific requirements, promoting better outcomes and faster recovery.
AvMA panel member Oliver Thorne, who heads up the clinical negligence team at Slee Blackwell Solicitors, says:
“Clinical negligence claims are vital for ensuring that patients who have suffered due to inadequate medical care can access the rehabilitation they need. Through early intervention, collaboration, and the involvement of case managers, these claims help maximise recovery and improve the quality of life for affected individuals.”
A lot of helpful information and guidance about making a medical negligence claim has been published on Slee Blackwell’s specialist claims website. Oliver has also created a website that is dedicated purely to medical accident claims which contains summaries of some of his team’s most successful cases.
Author: Guest Blogger, Slee Blackwell Solicitors