Fletchers Solicitors Investigating Claims for Patients Affected by Ophthalmology Issues at Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

At Fletchers Solicitors, we are currently investigating claims on behalf of patients who have experienced serious issues with ophthalmology care at Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. This follows an alarming rise in ophthalmology-related concerns across England and Wales, largely due to significant backlogs in treatment. These delays are having devastating consequences for patients, with some experiencing severe deterioration in their eyesight and, in some cases, even blindness.

Ophthalmology Issues and the Trust’s Review

Board meeting minutes from the Trust indicate that they have recognised these serious failings and are undertaking a review of ophthalmology clinics covering the last three years. One of the key concerns identified is that a number of patients were lost to follow-up, meaning they did not receive the necessary ongoing care and treatment to manage their eye conditions effectively.

To address these issues, an oversight group, led at the executive level, has been established to develop a plan for identifying and contacting affected patients. Additionally, steps are being taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future. A further audit is underway to determine whether the problem was isolated to the 2019/20 period or if it has persisted in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic. More broadly, the Access Team at the Trust is set to conduct a comprehensive review of all services, including harm audits and improvements in booking processes, beginning in April. The NHS has stated that the waiting times for non-urgent referrals is 18 weeks but we have seen that many go past this point to which their condition worsens as a result.

The Impact on Patients

While we welcome the Trust’s recognition of these failings and their commitment to improving services, for many patients, these measures have come too late. We are currently representing a client who was advised that he had been lost to follow-up, resulting in significant deterioration of his visual field in his left eye. Sadly, he is just one of several individuals who have suffered life-changing consequences due to delays in treatment or diagnosis.

The impact of losing one’s vision is profound, affecting every aspect of daily life, from work and independence to emotional well-being. Patients who placed their trust in the healthcare system deserve answers and, where appropriate, justice for the harm they have suffered.

We Are Here to Help

If you or a loved one have been affected by ophthalmology treatment delays at Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, we encourage you to reach out to us. At Fletchers Solicitors, we have extensive experience in medical negligence claims and are committed to helping patients seek the justice they deserve.

Our team offers free, confidential, and no-obligation case assessments to determine whether you may be entitled to a claim. If you believe you have suffered due to delays in ophthalmology care, please contact us today to discuss your situation.