£5.25 Million In Compensation For Brain Infection Boy Sent Home By A&E
Hospital accident and emergency (A&E) departments work under intense pressure but, if negligent mistakes are made, it is only right that compensation is paid. In a case in point, a boy who was sent home from a hospital despite suffering from a rare brain infection secured a seven-figure compensation pay out from the NHS.
The boy was a few months old when he contracted encephalitis, a condition that starts with flu-like symptoms but is life-threatening if not treated swiftly. His parents took him to their local A&E department, but he was sent home. His illness was not diagnosed until the following day when he was admitted to the hospital. He suffered serious brain injuries and has been left facing a lifetime of disability.
Solicitors acting on the boy’s behalf sued the NHS trust that managed the hospital. It was admitted that the hospital staff had breached the duty of care they owed him by sending him home on the first occasion. However, the trust disputed liability to pay damages, claiming that the mistake had made no difference to the tragic outcome.
Despite the dispute regarding liability, the case was settled for £5.25 million. In approving the lump-sum payment, the High Court noted that, although it did not represent the full potential value of the boy’s claim, it was enough to make a very real difference for the rest of his life.
Nothing can truly compensate for mistakes on the part of medical staff that cause permanent damage to health. However, a financial settlement enables the family to achieve a better quality of life for their child, without the stress of money worries. Our specialist legal team is experienced in handling claims of this kind. For more information on our services please contact us on 0207 822 4000 or email injury@healys.old-website.shout-loud.co.uk
