Delay in diagnosing cervical cancer

If you have been the victim of a delay in diagnosing cervical cancer and would like to know where you stand on claiming compensation on a no win, no fee basis, then call our free national helpline on 0333 888 0404 or email us at [email protected]

Delay in diagnosing cervical cancer and recovering compensation

Women are consistently reminded of how important it is to have a regular smear test to ensure that they are not showing early signs of cervical cancer. Although a smear test is not a pleasant experience, Cancer Research UK urge women to have one, offering some comfort that 9 out of 10 tests are negative.

Early diagnosis is so important. Late diagnosis increases the need for radiotherapy, chemotherapy and invasive surgery, all of which can cause physical effects that may affect your fertility or your ability to carry a child. There may also be financial consequences if you are not able to work for a prolonged period of time due to treatment. Extensive treatment may also cause individuals to suffer psychologically. In some cases late diagnosis can lead to death.

Claiming compensation for delay in diagnosing cervical cancer

If you have required surgery or invasive treatment due to a delay in diagnosing cervical cancer you may be entitled to recover compensation for what you have been through.

Delay in making an accurate diagnosis can arise in a number of ways. Your GP may not have carried out a thorough examination, for instance, or referred you on to a specialist when abnormal signs or symptoms were present. A smear test may have been misreported or highlighted a problem which was not then followed up. Or your condition may have been misdiagnosed.
In all these instances it is worth speaking to an experienced medical negligence lawyer about the right to claim compensation.

Delay in diagnosis leading to death

Cancer Research UK statistics show that cervical cancer is the 19th most common fatal cancer for women, with 860 deaths recorded in a year. While most deaths from cervical cancer are unavoidable, some women might have survived with an earlier diagnosis. In these circumstances their loved ones may be able to make a clinical negligence claim, especially if  young dependent children have been left behind.

While no amount of compensation can make up for the loss of a life, compensation may help the family get back on its feet and ease the financial pressures. Claims can be made by a spouse, a civil partner or anyone who was financially dependant, including children.

Time limits

If you feel you have been let down by the medical profession, do not delay in seeking specialist legal advice. You must bring a clinical negligence claim within three years of the date of the error, or three years from the date of knowledge of that error so it is important to act quickly.

How we can help

If you need guidance on making a claim for delaying diagnosing cervical cancer please call our specialist clinical negligence team on 0333 888 0404 for a free case assessment and details of no win, no fee funding. Alternatively send an email to us at [email protected]

Sophie Styles

Sophie Styles

Sophie is a member of our medical negligence department, handling a variety of cases, including birth injury and misdiagnosis claims. She also specialises in NHS Continuing Healthcare claims, dealing with retrospective claims and appeals to enable those with primary health needs to obtain the funding that they require.Sophie is studying to become a qualified Legal Executive.
Sophie Styles

Sophie Styles

Sophie is a member of our medical negligence department, handling a variety of cases, including birth injury and misdiagnosis claims. She also specialises in NHS Continuing Healthcare claims, dealing with retrospective claims and appeals to enable those with primary health needs to obtain the funding that they require.Sophie is studying to become a qualified Legal Executive.

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Call the Slee Blackwell helpline on 0333 888 0404