Lawford Kidd's Blog

In response to proposals published by the Scottish Government, currently subject to consultation, on imposing a ‘duty of candour’ for healthcare providers, the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) has urged doctors and other medical staff to be upfront and honest in regards to any medical errors. However, the group also warns that divulging all information in regards to near misses may be “too burdensome” for healthcare workers and may damage the reputation of the NHS.

If the move is approved in the Scottish parliament, it will mean that healthcare staff and those working in social services will be legally obliged to tell families when a patient has been harmed as a result of medical negligence.

Consultation Launched

A 21-year-old woman from Fife has been awarded just under £62,000 in compensation for a medical error that led to the loss of her two front teeth as a child, reports STV.

The woman had attended the Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy when she was six for a routine operation to remove her tonsils. When she woke up after the surgery, she found her two front adult teeth had been knocked out. Attempts were made to re-root the teeth, but these were ultimately unsuccessful.

Since then, she has undergone a number of different treatments, and faces the prospect of more treatment in the future. She also claims she was bullied as a child because of her teeth.

The health authority had admitted liability for the incident, but disputed the £100,000 damages claim. According to STV, a civil jury at the Court of Session awarded her £38,000 for her pain and suffering, £8500 for services and £15,300 for future dental costs.