In our recent article on the NHS Resolution Annual Report 2025/26, we discussed the continued rise in clinical negligence claims across the NHS and the importance of learning lessons from avoidable harm.
Analysis of NHS Resolution data found that A&E-related clinical negligence claims have increased by 41% over the past five years, rising from 1,151 claims in 2020/21 to 1,623 claims in 2025/26. A&E is now reported to be the largest single area for clinical negligence claims by volume.
The report highlighted the devastating consequences that can arise when serious symptoms are not properly investigated. While the vast majority of patients receive excellent care, delays in diagnosis, incorrect assessments and failures to recognise signs of serious illness can have life-changing consequences for patients and their families.
BBC Coverage Highlights the Human Cost of A&E Errors
The rise in A&E-related clinical negligence claims has recently been highlighted by the BBC, which reported on the case of a 32-year-old who attended A&E with headaches and dizziness following treatment for a brain tumour. Despite their symptoms and medical history, a CT scan was not carried out. They later suffered a cardiac arrest caused by a build-up of fluid on their brain and was left with life-changing injuries. The case has brought renewed attention to the pressures facing emergency departments and the potentially devastating consequences when serious conditions are not identified or investigated promptly. read more on the article here
At Bridge McFarland LLP, our Medical Negligence team has supported the family of a patient who attended A&E and was incorrectly assessed before being discharged home. Within days, he was re-admitted to hospital suffering from sepsis and tragically later passed away.
For his family what followed was an incredibly difficult time as they tried to come to terms with their loss and understand what had happened. Through a detailed legal investigation answers were obtained and liability was admitted. We were then able to secure compensation on behalf of the family.
Although compensation can never undo the harm caused, clinical negligence claims often help families obtain answers, accountability and financial security following avoidable medical errors.
The increase in A&E-related claims serves as an important reminder of the pressures facing emergency departments and the need for continued focus on patient safety, timely diagnosis and appropriate investigations when patients present with potentially serious conditions.
How We Can Help
If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered harm as a result of delayed diagnosis, an incorrect assessment, failures in A&E treatment or any other aspect of medical care, our specialist Medical Negligence team may be able to help.
To speak to a member of our Medical Negligence team, call 0800 987 8800, complete our online enquiry form or email enquiries@bmcf.co.uk.
