Clinical Negligence Claims
NHSR have reported that since 2013/14, there has been a growth in the volume and value of clinical negligence claims involving patients with diabetes-related lower limb complications. The majority of claims have involved patients with a diabetic foot ulcer who went on to undergo a major lower limb amputation.
NHSR have produced a thematic review of 92 clinical negligence claims across England for lower limb problems involving patients with diabetes.
The review demonstrated that a majority of patients involved in the claims progressed to undergo a major lower limb amputation. It is reported that up to 85% of amputations are avoidable. Appropriate recognition of pathology, followed by the provision of timely care, is important to reduce amputations and improve patient outcomes. The report however highlights delays in recognising the severity of diabetic foot disease, and subsequent delays in the care provided.
As a result of the review, NHSR produced a report providing lessons and recommendations to improve patient care and avoid the preventable loss of limbs. The themes within the report cover various aspects of care and highlights the importance of collaborative working and coordination across healthcare systems. Through identifying common issues within the claims, the review aims to support the numerous teams and clinicians all working to drive improvements in patient care.
