The NHS has been asked to make efforts to reduce costs as new treatments and an ageing population are raising costs. The government has said that the front line services must be protected whilst cuts are being made. A Chairman of the British Medical Association (BMA), Dr. Hamish Meldrum, has reported that evidence proves that jobs are being lost and some services are restricted as a result of the cost cuts.
Dr Meldrum reportedly said that he understood that cuts needed to be made, however he said that he was concerned at how the early cuts were being made, as doctors were not being consulted with regards to these matters. The NHS is one area of public spending who will not see its budget cut, however the NHS is still being asked to save on spending as the price of drugs increase, a ageing population and obesity.
Feedback from the BMA report showed that plans to develop new services and facilities had been put on hold or scrapped and some GP’s had reported that restrictions were put on the number of patients who were allowed to be referred for specialist treatment. (source)
If you have been affected by any of the above and feel that you haven’t received the adequate care and attention and as a result you have sustained injury you may have a potential claim for compensation.
First of all you should record the details of the incident, record exactly what happened, who you felt was at fault. Also record any expenses that you may have incurred as a result of the incident such as a loss of earnings, medical fees, any care and attention fees – even if you have been cared for buy a family member. All these expenses can be put forward in you claim for compensation and can potential be claimed back for you.
The NHS does have a complaints department and it would be best if you place a complaint with them directly, the matter can then be investigated at their end to find the cause of the incident. It also provides a strong record to show that something has gone wrong in the care that you received.
If you feel you wish to discuss your circumstances further to clarify if you may have a claim, feel free to call our office to speak to one of our independent personal injury specialist lawyers.