a Clinical negligence may result from surgical errors

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Medical negligence, youclaim.co.uk

Surgical errors and the Royal College of Surgeons

Cases of clinical negligence which involve surgical errors, fortunately, are quite rare in the UK for a number of reasons.

Safety procedures have evolved hugely over the last hundred years and monitoring equipment has become ever more sophisticated, helping medical staff do their jobs to the highest possible standard and providing the best outcomes for a patient even if they are seriously ill or injured.

British doctors who wish to become surgeons undergo years of training in order to gain sufficient knowledge and experience. Personal attributes include having a calm attitude, quick brains and skilful hands to perform life-saving and enhancing procedures.

Once a medical student has decided he wants to become a surgeon and has completed a basic degree, he then undertakes core surgical training at an appropriate hospital for two years. After this wider experience, he can choose one of the nine recognised specialities and will begin six years of further refining procedures and skills.

The trainee will be subject to an annual review of progress and competence then, at the end of that time, he can apply for a senior position as a surgeon. Continuing professional training is offered to all surgeons to keep their techniques up to standard and to find out about new research and methods.

The Royal College of Surgeons of England helps surgeons reach and maintain the highest standards. The organisation supervises training, provides workshops for surgeons at all stages of their careers and arranges examinations for trainees.

It also promotes and supports surgical research in the UK and acts as an advisory to the Department of Health and similar bodies while supporting surgeons throughout their careers.

The college does not have a role in disciplining or regulating the behaviour of its members as these are the responsibility of the General Medical Council (GMC) with which all surgeons have to be registered in order to practice.

If a personal injury situation as a result of a surgical error has arisen, which may result in an investigation by the GMC, usually the patient concerned will wait until the organisation has made its decision before deciding on whether legal action for compensation is also appropriate.

YouClaim can advise on a surgical error claim
Even if a GMC hearing is pending against a surgeon, a lawyer will be able to provide initial advice on the potential for making a damages claim and YouClaim's personal injury solicitors offer free initial consultations on all cases, including clinical negligence.

Their professional standards are monitored by the Law Society's Solicitors Regulation Authority so you can be assured of the best attention offered with sympathy and explanations in plain English of all procedures.

To find out more about how YouClaim can help you or a loved one seek compensation for a surgical error, you can contact us in a number of ways. There is an initial claim form on this webpage, you can open e-chat, we can call you back at a convenient time or phone now on 0800 10 757 95

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