In May 2013, a British Medical Journal (BMJ) study revealed that patients undergoing planned surgery were more likely to suffer fatal clinical negligence during the weekend than at the beginning of the week.
Naturally, many individuals, medical authorities, and organisations – such as the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) – declared that these findings were unacceptable and that people should receive the same level of care from medical professionals throughout the week.
Reportedly, the lack of experienced doctors on duty in hospitals during Saturdays and Sundays impacted the safety of patients undergoing elective surgical procedures.
Furthermore, the lack of consultants available during emergency cases at the weekends meant that those patients were more likely to die than if they had been admitted earlier in the week.
The team which undertook the study – led by a clinical reader in epidemiology and public health at Imperial College London – stated that the risk of a poor outcome to medical treatment increased every day after Monday.
A spokesperson for the research team explained, “Compared with Monday, the adjusted odds of death [taking into account case mix] for all elective surgical procedures was 44% higher, and 82% higher, if the procedures were carried out on Friday or at the weekend respectively.”
The study also found that the chances of patients dying or suffering other clinical negligence-related injuries were higher if having a lung removed, an operation to improve blood-flow to the heart, or surgery for an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
The skill with which operations are undertaken, and the first 48 hours following surgery, are very important to an individual’s recovery, so a lower quality of care during certain days of the week is unacceptable.
Fewer experienced staff could mean that a patient does not receive the care they require to successfully recover from their surgery or the initial injuries caused by their accident or illness.
If you or a member of your family have suffered clinical negligence – which resulted in personal injury or illness – you could be eligible to claim compensation for your pain, suffering, and lost earnings.
4th October 2022
The Legal 500 rankings for 2023 have been released, with Healys LLP seeing an increase in the number of practice areas and individuals recommended; as well as achieving the ranking of Top Tier Firm.
31st March 2022
Those who undergo cosmetic or other forms of surgery abroad can find it very hard to obtain compensation if things go wrong. However, the case of a nightclub dancer who nearly died following a breast augmentation operation in Poland showed that English lawyers are well able to rise to the challenge. Continue reading »
18th January 2022
Disabled children bring great joy to their families’ lives but, with an eye to their future care needs, it is always wise to explore the possibility of seeking compensation. In a case on point, a settlement secured for a profoundly disabled teenager successfully ensured that she would always be properly looked after. Continue reading »
21st October 2021
The latest edition of leading legal directory Chambers & Partners has been published, and Healys are pleased to announce that 3 partners have received individual recognition.
1st October 2021
Healys has once again been recognised as a Leading Firm in the latest edition of the Legal 500 UK. This year Healys has been ranked in 7 practice areas, with 13 individuals recognised as Recommended Lawyers in their specialist fields. Continue reading »
27th March 2023
Whenever possible, Healys LLP commits to initiatives that support more diversity & inclusion within the business community. That’s why earlier this month, we joined forces with Best of British Events alongside Seico Mortgages, Kreston Reeves & Sussex Business Times to host a special event in celebration of Women’s Month. Continue reading »
In recent weeks AI technology has been a hot topic for many businesses as we consider the advantages and threats of this new technology. That’s why leading law firm Healys LLP have partnered with Business Solutions Networking to host a virtual event which provides insight into how your business can take advantage of AI to save you and your business valuable time and recourses.
16th March 2023
In the current climate, it is not uncommon for you or your business to require expert advice from solicitors, accountants, estate agents, surveyors, financial advisors and other industry experts. Continue reading »
10th March 2023
As we mentioned in our last edition of The Board Minute, Healys’ Corporate & Commercial team has expanded. This time round, we get to hear from Corporate Solicitor Jamie Tavares. Continue reading »
‘Funded Female Founders’ provides an honest and eye-opening insight into the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs when raising capital. Starting this book, I knew very little about “what it’s really like out there” for female founders (the focus of the first part in David’s book). I was, however, quickly gripped by the sharp and analytical style of David’s writing. Continue reading »