As Ireland's population ages, our senior citizens have become an even more integral part of our community's fabric. Between 2013 and 2023, the number of people aged 65 and over in Ireland has risen by over 40%, from approximately 569,000 to 806,000. This figure is expected to double again to 1.6 million by 2051.
Our senior citizens should receive the highest standard of medical care. They have contributed immensely to society, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they are treated with dignity and respect. Unfortunately, instances of geriatric medical negligence do occur, leading to unnecessary suffering and hardship.
If someone close to you has experienced geriatric medical negligence, we are here to help. Our dedicated team specialises in advocating for the rights of the elderly, striving to secure the justice and compensation they deserve. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us for compassionate support and expert guidance.
What Is Geriatric Medical Negligence?
Geriatric medical negligence occurs when healthcare providers fail to offer the proper care that our elderly loved ones need, leading to harm or injury. As people age, their health issues often become more complex, requiring specialised attention.
When doctors, nurses, or carers don't meet the expected standards,whether by misdiagnosing a condition, providing incorrect treatment, or neglecting essential care,the consequences can be severe. This negligence doesn't just affect their physical health but can also impact their dignity and quality of life.
Examples of Geriatric Medical Negligence
Common instances of geriatric medical negligence include the following:
- Medication Mistakes: Prescribing the wrong medication or incorrect dosages can be especially harmful to seniors, who may be more sensitive or taking multiple medications.
- Delayed or Incorrect Diagnosis: Failing to promptly and accurately diagnose conditions like heart disease, stroke, or dementia means missed opportunities for effective treatment.
- Neglect in Care Facilities: Inadequate staffing or poor training in nursing homes can lead to neglect, resulting in bedsores, malnutrition, dehydration, or preventable falls.
- Surgical Errors: Mistakes during surgery, such as operating on the wrong body part or leaving surgical instruments inside the patient, can have life-threatening repercussions.
- Insufficient Monitoring: Not keeping a close eye on vital signs or neglecting to follow up on treatment plans can allow manageable conditions to worsen unnecessarily.
How to Establish Geriatric Medical Negligence
Proving that geriatric medical negligence has occurred involves establishing these things:
- Duty of Care: First, it's important to establish that there was a patient-carer relationship, meaning the healthcare provider had a responsibility to offer a certain standard of care.
- Breach of Duty: You'll need to show that the healthcare professional failed to meet accepted medical standards. This could be through a specific action they took or something they neglected to do.
- Causation: It's crucial to link this breach of duty directly to the harm suffered. Essentially, you have to demonstrate that the injury or worsening condition wouldn't have happened if proper care had been provided.
- Damages: Lastly, you'll need to document the impact of the negligence. This includes physical injuries, emotional distress, additional medical expenses, or a diminished quality of life.
The Geriatric Medical Negligence Claim Process
First, we'll sit down with you to discuss what happened and gather all the necessary details. We'll collect medical records and consult with experts to establish that negligence occurred and caused harm to your loved one.
Once we have a solid case, we'll file the claim on your behalf. We'll handle all communications with the parties involved, working diligently to secure a fair settlement that acknowledges the suffering endured. If needed, we're fully prepared to represent you in court. Throughout the entire process, we'll keep you informed and support you every step of the way.
Are There Any Time Limits?
Yes, there are important time limits to consider. Under the Statute of Limitations Act 1957, you have two years from the date of the injury,or from when you became aware of the injury,to initiate legal proceedings. This is known as the statute of limitations. Acting promptly is crucial because missing this deadline could prevent you from making a claim.
What Are the Average Compensation Amounts?
Compensation for geriatric medical negligence depends on the unique circumstances of each case. The Personal Injuries Guidelines provide a framework, but the final amount will be determined based on the severity of the harm caused, how it has impacted your loved one’s life, and any ongoing medical or care needs.
Start Your Geriatric Medical Negligence Claim
Our elderly deserve to live their golden years with dignity and respect, free from neglect or poor care. If someone close to you has been harmed by geriatric medical negligence, now is the time to act. Contact us today and let us fight for the justice and compensation your loved one deserves.
*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement. This statement is made in line with regulation 8 of the Solicitors Advertising Regulations 2019.
