Condition misdiagnosis

GP Misdiagnosis and Delayed Diagnosis Claims

When you visit your GP with worrying symptoms, you expect your concerns to be taken seriously. A missed or delayed diagnosis can mean prolonged illness, additional treatment or a worse outcome. If this has happened to you or someone close to you, we can help you understand your options.

What is GP misdiagnosis?

A misdiagnosis occurs when a condition is incorrectly identified; a delayed diagnosis occurs when the correct diagnosis is made later than it reasonably should have been. Not every diagnostic difficulty is negligent. A claim usually requires evidence that the GP failed to meet an acceptable standard and that the delay caused additional harm.

Examples of conditions that may be missed

Concerns may involve cancer symptoms, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, infections, fractures or neurological conditions. Claims can also arise from failures to arrange appropriate tests, act on abnormal results, refer urgently or follow up persistent symptoms.

How can a delayed diagnosis affect someone?

A delay may mean more intensive treatment, reduced treatment options, avoidable pain or lasting health difficulties. Independent medical experts help determine whether earlier action would probably have made a difference.

How can we help?

Medical Negligence Consultants offers a free initial assessment and can refer suitable cases to solicitors experienced in delayed diagnosis and primary care claims. Your solicitor can obtain medical records, commission expert opinions and explain the legal process.

For injuries during treatment rather than diagnosis, see our GP Injuries page.

Call 0800 612 4970 or request a free call-back below.