Cases double in NHS trust death and injury investigation

The BBC has reported that a police investigation into preventable deaths and injuries at the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust has significantly expanded. Initially focusing on 105 cases of alleged medical negligence between 2015 and 2021, Sussex Police are now investigating more than 200 cases. These include allegations of gross negligence manslaughter and corporate manslaughter, primarily within the trust’s neurosurgery and general surgery departments. Families have raised concerns about at least 40 deaths, alongside other incidents of serious harm.

Separate to the police investigation, the article highlights a recent case involving Wendy Gibbs, a patient who suffered severe complications from a surgery carried out by consultant surgeon Marc Lamah. This included internal bleeding, sepsis, and long-term physical and emotional trauma. The case underscores ongoing concerns about patient safety and professional conduct within both NHS and private healthcare providers linked to the trust.

Potential for Clinical Negligence Claims: The details revealed in the BBC’s report highlight potential areas for clinical negligence claims, including:

1. Failure to Provide Safe and Adequate Care: Allegations of preventable deaths, delays in treatment, and inadequate post-operative care suggest breaches of duty that could form the basis of negligence claims.
2. Informed Consent: Cases like Wendy Gibbs’ surgery raise concerns about misrepresentation of risks and failure to disclose critical safety information, which could amount to a failure to obtain informed consent.
3. Professional Misconduct: The allegations against specific surgeons, such as setting arbitrary time limits for surgeries and ignoring safety concerns, indicate possible grounds for claims due to unprofessional behavior and substandard care.
4. Systemic Issues: The reported “culture of fear,” delays in care, and lack of proper oversight point to systemic failings that may expose the trust to corporate negligence claims.

Why This Matters to Our Clients 

The investigation into University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust underscores the importance of holding healthcare providers accountable for preventable harm. If you or a loved one have experienced similar issues with medical care, our clinical negligence team at Pabla + Pabla Solicitors is here to provide expert advice. We can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for the harm you’ve suffered.