GP negligence claims: Expert legal advice from a solicitor

GP negligence claims are an important area of medical negligence law, where patients seek justice and compensation after suffering harm due to a general practitioner’s failure to provide an appropriate standard of care. If you believe you have experienced medical negligence by a GP, expert legal advice from a Medical Negligence Solicitor can guide you through the complex claims process and help secure the compensation you deserve.

In England and Wales, GP negligence claims are governed by strict legal frameworks designed to ensure that patients harmed by medical errors can obtain fair redress. GP negligence can involve misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, prescription errors, or failure to refer a patient for specialist care. Understanding the legal context and how GP negligence claims operate is essential for anyone considering pursuing a claim.

What constitutes GP negligence?

GP negligence claims arise when a general practitioner breaches their duty of care, resulting in harm to the patient. This duty involves providing care that meets the standards expected of a reasonably competent GP. Examples include:

• Failing to diagnose a condition promptly.
• Incorrectly prescribing medication.
• Ignoring symptoms or failing to refer to a specialist.
• Inadequate monitoring of chronic conditions.

To succeed in GP negligence claims, it must be proven that the GP’s actions directly caused injury or worsened the patient’s condition.

The legal process for GP negligence claims

GP negligence claims typically follow these key steps:

1. Initial consultation: Seek advice from a specialised medical negligence solicitor.
2. Gathering evidence: Medical records, expert reports, and witness statements are collected.
3. Pre-action protocol: Notify the GP practice and attempt to resolve the dispute before court proceedings.
4. Filing a claim: If unresolved, the claim is submitted to the courts within the limitation period (usually three years from the date of injury or knowledge).
5. Settlement or trial: Many cases settle out of court, but some proceed to trial for a final decision.

This process is complex, so early legal advice is crucial.

Common types of GP negligence claims

GP negligence claims cover a broad range of errors, such as:

• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of conditions like cancer or heart disease.
• Incorrect or harmful medication prescriptions.
• Failure to monitor or manage chronic illnesses like diabetes or hypertension.
• Inadequate patient communication and failure to obtain informed consent.

Each claim will depend on the specific circumstances and evidence available.

Expert legal advice in GP negligence claims

Obtaining expert legal advice from a solicitor experienced in medical negligence is vital. They can:

• Assess the strength of your GP negligence claim.
• Guide you on the types of compensation available, including pain and suffering, loss of earnings, and future care costs.
• Navigate complex medical and legal documentation.
• Handle negotiations with the GP practice or NHS trusts.
• Represent you in court if necessary.

Experts recommend consulting a solicitor as soon as you suspect negligence to preserve evidence and meet legal deadlines.

Real-world case study: Successful GP negligence claim

Alan repeatedly sought help from his GP for worsening hip pain, but received no physical examinations, inadequate pain relief, and no timely referrals. After 17 months, a scan revealed severe arthritis, though Alan was not informed for another 10 months. Left in unbearable pain, he opted for private hip replacement surgery. With legal support from Fosters Solicitors on a no win, no fee basis, Alan secured a £30,000 settlement despite the GP’s denial of liability, compensating him for prolonged suffering and treatment costs.

Find out more.

Benefits and challenges of pursuing GP negligence claims

• Benefits:
  • Financial compensation for harm suffered.
  • Accountability and improved medical standards.
  • Access to expert legal support.
• Challenges:
  • Complex legal and medical evidence.
  • Strict limitation periods.
  • Potential emotional strain during proceedings.

For additional information on medical negligence law, you may visit the NHS website.

If you think you have grounds for GP negligence claims, expert legal advice from a solicitor can make a decisive difference in your case outcome.

When medical treatment does not go as planned, obtaining the compensation you deserve can seem daunting, complicated and patients are often left feeling alone. Our specialist Medical Negligence team has experience in a wide range of GP negligence claims including:

• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis.
• Failure to act on test results.
• Failure to investigate symptoms.
• Failure to refer.
• Inappropriate prescriptions.

We want to work with you to achieve the best possible outcome for your claim.

We understand you will want to know how we can assist, so we offer a free of charge no obligation first meeting or chat, which we follow up with a full letter of advice. If you are in any doubt as to whether you have a claim, please do contact us, again completely without obligation.

We are also able to discuss how you can cover the cost of a claim, including through a ‘No Win, No Fee’ agreement.

Contact us for more information.

This article was produced on the 19th August 2025 for information purposes only and should not be construed or relied upon as specific legal advice.