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An increasing number of experts argue that in order to understand the true extent of superbug-related medical negligence, hospitals should be obliged to list hospital-acquired infections such as MRSA and Clostridium difficile should be listed on death certificates in cases where they are considered a contributing factor in death.
A specialist from a hospital in Norfolk explains how the current system operates, "A discussion takes place about how and why the patient died and whether the infection was a contributory factor. The outcome of this discussion is recorded on the death certificate as appropriate, and noted in our records so that there is an audit trail."
Although the number of death certificate-recorded superbug deaths has risen from 51 in 1993 to 1,629 in 2006, there are many experts who believe the incidence to still be greatly underreported. For example, the number of official superbug-related deaths stood at 5,436 in 2008, with some believing the true figure is much closer to 28,000.
Vanessa Bourne, of the Patients' Association, says that more needs to be done to tackle supebugs, "All hospitals should be making hygiene their top priority. Superbugs are now killing twice as many people each year as die on the roads, and they are all deaths which could be prevented."
And she said that failure to address the problems could lead to compensation claims for medical negligence. "I think it is quite possible that patients, or their families, could sue over this if hygiene has been a factor in the deaths," she said.
Medical negligence solicitors
Medical practitioners owe their patients a duty of care. If this duty of care has been neglected and you have suffered injury as a result, it may be possible to claim compensation.
Whether you have suffered injury as a result of botched surgery, been infected with a superbug or been through the pain and trauma of a misdiagnosis, there are specialist lawyers on our panel who are able to help you.
All are drawn from firms governed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and many possess membership of the Clinical Negligence Scheme.
Unfortunately, the complexity of medical negligence cases means we are unlikely to be able to offer a cost free service. However, we do strive to keep all costs to a minimum while also ensuring that all winning claimants receive 100 percent compensation - we never take a cut.
If you would like to discuss your case with a specialist, echat, complete an online claim form or call us today, on 0800 10 757 95.
