Delay in diagnosis and treatment leads to sight loss

Led by Principal Associate Sharon Banga, our team investigated this case after our client sadly lost sight in one eye due to medical negligence. Thanks to our support, the client can access the professional care and treatment she needs, and the provisional damages secured will safeguard her against potential future deterioration. 

What you’ll find in this case study:

• How a delayed diagnosis led to avoidable sight loss. 

• Details of the impact on the client’s daily life, independence and long-term risks to her remaining eye. 

• How we secured provisional damages to protect the client against future deterioration. 

• Challenges of the case, including the defendant NHS Trust’s initial denial of liability. 

• How Fletchers successfully settled the case, to fund our client’s ongoing and future care needs. 

Background 

Our client experienced a delay in the diagnosis and treatment of raised intraocular pressure in one of her eyes. As a result of this delay, she unfortunately lost sight in this eye.  

Impact  

The loss of vision in one eye has had a significant impact on our client’s daily life and independence. In addition, her remaining eye is at risk of future injury.  

The client requires assistance with certain daily activities and has ongoing care and occupational therapy (OT) needs. Her partner, who she lives with, supports with the client’s care.  

Case and outcome 

The medical negligence case was handled by Principal Associate, Sharon Banga.  

The primary failures in the case related to the failure to arrange timely ophthalmology review and appropriate follow-up investigations. As part of the claim, we also pursued provisional damages for our client, to account for the possibility of future deterioration. 

Despite the defendant NHS Trust initially denying liability, the case was resolved shortly before trial, with the client receiving medical negligence compensation of £160,000. The compensation has helped provide some financial security and will allow our client to access professional care and treatment when needed.  

We are very pleased to have achieved a result that reflects the seriousness of her injuries and supports her ongoing and future needs. Sharon commented: 

“The settlement achieved is a vital step in delivering accountability and giving our client the security and support she deserves.”

To speak to us about your medical negligence claim, get in touch.