Keeping medical negligence compensation claims out of sight
Concern has been raised that children seem to be missing out on eye tests, but it is unlikely that such lapses will result in claims for medical negligence compensation.
The fact of the matter is that all children under the age of 16 are entitled to free NHS tests and many parents are either unaware of this or are not taking up the offer.
According to a report from the Association of Optometrists, research suggests that 5% of children aged six and 10% of 12 year olds have an eye problem that has gone uncorrected.
With this in mind, the AOP called for a review of just how many children have access to vision screening. Eye checks have been carried out previously on children aged five, seven and occasionally 11, and in 2004 there was a call for younger children aged four to five to be included in a national screening programme.
If a child's eye problem remains undetected and untreated it could not only cause serious personal injury to the eyes but also interfere with the child's academic and social development. It is not uncommon for children to be accused of not taking part in lessons and activities when the simple explanation is that they cannot see.
Head of optometry and visual sciences at City University, said, "In an ideal world all children would be taken for regular eye examinations by an optometrist and a publicity campaign may help raise awareness.
"I believe that this should be backed up with high-quality vision screening in schools, ideally at the age of four to five, seven and 11."
It seems that the government is doing its bit by providing free eye tests for children and the Department of Health stress that they are attempting to raise awareness about how important it is for parents to send their children to the opticians.
A spokesperson from the Department of Health commented, "Information about the extensive arrangements for providing help with NHS optical services and other health costs are publicised in leaflets and posters are also available for display in optical practices and hospital out-patient departments."
While a free service is provided by the health service for the protection of British children, claims for medical negligence compensation are unlikely to arise. However, if any child is denied this complimentary privilege and ends up suffering an ongoing eye problem the expertise of a personal injury solicitor may be called upon.
Make a medical negligence compensation claim today
In this case, medical negligence compensation may not be appropriate, however, there are many cases where people are harmed as a result of medical neglect and are entitled to make a claim for personal injury compensation.
Are you suffering the effects of medical negligence? You could be in a position to make a no win, no fee claim through us today.
Our panel of personal injury solicitors are dedicated to helping those who deserve medical negligence compensation and they have a catalogue of successful claims behind them.
We could help you today, either chat to us online, send us a call back request, fill in an online claim form or give us a call on 0800 10 757 95.
