Expert Calls For Reassurances

A medical law expert at Irwin Mitchell has called on health authorities to clarify concerns that have been raised over waiting times on certain types of surgery.

The British Orthopaedic Association’s (BOA) president Peter Kay has told the BBC that reports have emerged over restrictions being seen on some services, with GPs allegedly being told to delay referrals in some cases.

He also warned that such a decision means that patients could be suffering for longer and also eventually receiving treatment which is not as effective as if it had been done earlier.

Irwin Mitchell regularly provides support to victims who have suffered serious injuries as a result of medical errors or the negligence of healthcare authorities including the NHS.

Lisa Jordan, a Partner and clinical negligence specialist at the firm’s Birmingham office, said: “The issues raised by the BOA are undoubtedly a major cause for concern and I hope the NHS is able to investigate and assess some of the claims made.

“It is vital that health authorities do everything in their power to ensure patient safety is their core focus and that must mean guaranteeing people are able to access treatment when they are incapacitated.

“Reports of this kind are likely to concern patients and reassurances are needed that people will be able to access treatment when they need it the most.”