In haematology, test results such as full blood counts (FBC), haemoglobin levels, and platelet counts are used to diagnose and monitor life-threatening conditions. When healthcare professionals fail to properly report or act on these results, the consequences can be dire. Critical results, such as extremely low haemoglobin levels or abnormal platelet counts, are designed to trigger immediate medical action. Any delay or error in communicating these results may lead to severe patient harm or even death.
Our solicitors at Michael Boylan Litigation understand the importance of standardised and timely reporting of critical haematology values. Ireland’s healthcare system, like many others, faces challenges in ensuring consistent management of these critical results. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a miscommunication or error involving haematology results, you may be entitled to claim compensation for your suffering. Contact us today to begin your haematology error claim.
What Are Haematology Errors?
Haematology errors occur when there are mistakes in diagnosing or managing blood-related medical conditions. These errors can happen at various stages of testing and result in serious consequences. Common haematology errors include:
- Failure to report critical full blood count (FBC) results
- Incorrect interpretation of haemoglobin, platelet, or white blood cell counts
- Delay in communicating critical results to doctors or patients
- Errors in processing or handling blood samples, leading to inaccurate results
Consequences of Haematology Errors
Haematology errors can have significant, sometimes life-threatening consequences for patients, such as:
- Delayed diagnosis and treatment of serious conditions like leukaemia or anaemia
- Worsening of existing diseases, such as cancer or blood disorders
- Unnecessary treatments based on incorrect test results
- Prolonged suffering due to incorrect or missed diagnoses
- Life-threatening complications, such as severe infections, bleeding, or organ failure
- In extreme cases, death.
How to Prove a Haematology Error
To prove a haematology error in a medical negligence claim, several factors need to be established:
- Evidence of a critical result: Medical records must show that a blood test produced an abnormal or critical result that required urgent action.
- Failure to act: The healthcare provider must have failed to report, interpret, or act upon the critical result in a timely manner.
- Link to harm: There must be a clear link between the error and the harm suffered by the patient, such as a delayed diagnosis or improper treatment.
- Breach of standard of care: The healthcare provider's failure to act must be shown as a breach of the accepted standard of medical care.
The Haematology Error Claim Process
The process of making a haematology error claim with Michael Boylan Litigation begins by reviewing your medical records and gathering evidence of the error. We consult with medical experts to assess whether the healthcare provider's actions fell below the standard of care and caused harm. From there, we build a strong case to prove negligence and seek compensation for your suffering.
We prepare the claim, handle all legal proceedings, and negotiate with the responsible parties. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our team is ready to represent you in court.
Statute of Limitations
Under the Statute of Limitations Act 1957, the statute of limitations for filing a haematology error claim is two years. This period begins from either the date the error occurred or the date of knowledge, which is when you first became aware,or should reasonably have been aware,that the error caused harm.
For minors the two-year limitation period does not begin until they turn 18 years old. Therefore, they have until their 20th birthdays to file a claim related to a haematology error or any other medical negligence. As for those who lack legal capacity due to mental health conditions or disabilities, the statute of limitations is paused, and the two-year period only begins if and when they regain legal capacity. If the individual never regains legal capacity, the time limit may not apply, allowing a representative, such as a legal guardian, to file the claim on their behalf.
How Much Compensation Can You Expect?
Compensation for a haematology error claim depends on the severity of the harm caused and how it impacts your life. Several factors will influence the final amount of compensation, including the age of the patient, the severity and duration of the damage, its effect on life expectancy, and the impact on daily life and work.
Other considerations include the presence of scarring, the need for ongoing medical treatment, and any psychological impacts like anxiety or depression. For an accurate estimate of the amount of compensation that you can expect, contact us to discuss your case.
Start Your Haematology Error Claim
If you've been harmed by a haematology error, you may be entitled to compensation. At Michael Boylan Litigation, we're ready to help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to start your claim.
*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.
