Wake Smith Solicitors’ clinical negligence team is currently assisting women who have concerns about breast cancer treatment received at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.
There has been significant national media coverage regarding breast cancer services at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.
The Trust has now agreed to extend its review of breast cancer cases back to 2015, potentially involving a further 4,500 patient cases.
The review follows findings of patient harm arising from concerns including delayed diagnosis, excessive surgery and treatment that was reportedly not aligned with best practice.
To date, 538 cases have been reviewed, with 321 patients found to have experienced some form of harm, including one death.
Wake Smith’s clinical negligence team is investigating potential clinical negligence claims arising from delayed diagnosis, unnecessary surgery and other alleged failings in treatment.
Clinical Negligence Director Kate Lax said: “This is very worrying for patients who have already had an awful time with diagnosis and investigation for breast cancer. It is right that the review should be extended back to when concerns may have been first raised at the Trust. Patients who have suffered avoidable harm as a result of substandard breast cancer care may be entitled to seek legal advice regarding potential compensation claims.
“We are already assisting women who have concerns regarding breast cancer treatment provided by the Trust.
“Whilst we cannot comment on any individual case or the ongoing review process, we are investigating potential clinical negligence claims arising from issues such as delayed diagnosis, delayed treatment, unnecessary surgery and other alleged failings in breast cancer care.”
For further advice on clinical negligence matters contact Wake Smith Solicitors here or on 0114 266 6660.