A diagnosis of Hepatitis C can be worrying and distressing for individuals and the families of loved ones. Where Hepatitis C has been passed due to a medical error, you may be in a position to take a claim against the negligent party.
What is Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis is a virus within the blood which can cause a number of adverse effects, not to mention a major drain on your wellbeing. Hepatitis C is passed by contact with contaminated bloods or other bodily fluids from an infected person. With timely and effective treatment, the effects of Hepatitis C virus can be significantly controlled, however, Hepatitis C can often be avoided should medical professional act in a competent manner.
Medical professionals have a duty of care to their patients to protect their health. To bring a claim for Hepatitis C due to medical negligence, it will be imperative to prove the following:
- The standard of care fell below that of a competent medical professional of the same standard;
- The negligence caused you injury or damage.
Hepatitis C medical negligence can present itself if a medical professional fails to:
- Inform you if you receive a positive result
- Spot the symptoms of Hepatitis C
- Make a prompt diagnosis
- Carry out necessary tests
- Provide correct medication
- Refer you to a specialist
- Protect you from contaminated blood or other infected agents
Should you be unsure as to the circumstances which led to you becoming infected with Hepatitis C, Tiernan & Co. Solicitors will request a copy of your relevant medical records and forward them to our expert. Our expert will determine the exact circumstances which led to you contacting Hepatitis C. This evidence will be vital in building a clear picture of what specific mistakes were made which lead to your diagnosis.
Clients who prove their Hepatitis C was caused at the hands of a negligent medical professional will be entitled to claim general damages for the pain and suffering, personal injury as well as loss of opportunity. Client’s will also be able to make a claim for any expenses they have incurred as a result of the negligence, to include loss of earnings as well as those expenses which may be expected into the future as a result of the Hepatitis C diagnosis. There are also statutory provisions in place to enable people to seek recourse as a result of Hepatitis C medical negligence.
In circumstances where an individual died as a result of negligently contracting Hepatitis C at the hands of a medical professional, a spouse, child, or any dependent of the deceased may be entitled to bring a claim to be compensated for the death of their loved one.
With over 30 years’ experience, Tiernan & Co. Solicitors have the requisite know-how to ensure our clients are adequately compensated for their troubles.
