If you feel unwell or have started to develop symptoms that you suspect may need medical attention, you will likely make an appointment with your GP to start the process of getting a diagnosis. If your doctor fails to properly investigate and reasonably diagnose your illness, or refer you to a specialist for further assessments, this may result in an adverse outcome for you.
If you believe that you have suffered unnecessarily, or that an existing illness has progressed or worsened due to the negligent treatment by your GP, you could be entitled to compensation.
If you are waiting for a diagnosis and feel that it is taking too long then you should speak to your GP about your concerns.
- Failure to properly investigate your symptoms.
- Failure to diagnose your illness or injury in a reasonable time.
- Failing to refer you to a specialist for further investigation.
- Failing to prescribe the right medication or treatment.
- Lack of consideration of your medical history in line with your complaint.
- Conduct a proper examination to assist in diagnosis.
The standard of care given by GP’s in the UK is one of the highest in the world. The General Medical Council, commonly referred to as the GMC, sets out the patient care standards that must be adhered to by all GPs when caring for patients.
If a GP fails to meet the standards expected of them by the GMC, they could risk losing their membership and could be struck off the medical register.
GP’s must:
- Take immediate action if they suspect that their patient’s health is at risk.
- Always put the patient first and provide excellent care.
- Treat their patients individually and with dignity.
- Work in partnership with patients and colleagues.
- Act with honesty and integrity.