GP & Doctor Negligence Solicitors 

GPs are not expected to diagnose or manage every condition themselves—but they are expected to recognise when specialist input is needed. Failure to refer a patient to hospital or for diagnostic tests can cause dangerous delays. We often see cases where a patient has repeatedly raised the same concern, only to be told it was not serious, until the situation became urgent.

If you have suffered harm because your GP failed to refer you appropriately, we can help you assess whether you have grounds to bring a GP negligence claim.

Mistakes involving medication are a common issue in general practice. This may involve prescribing the wrong drug, failing to check for allergies or interactions, or continuing a medication that is no longer appropriate. Prescription errors can cause anything from mild side effects to serious health complications, especially for older patients or those with multiple conditions.

These mistakes often occur due to rushed appointments, incomplete notes, or a lack of follow-up.

When blood tests, scans or other investigations are arranged, it is the GP’s responsibility to ensure that abnormal results are followed up and communicated. We see many cases where results are received by the surgery but never passed on to the patient—or where no action is taken despite clear clinical findings.

In these situations, opportunities to begin treatment early may be missed, resulting in deterioration that could have been avoided.

Many patients rely on their GP to monitor and manage chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, hypertension and mental health conditions. When care is poorly coordinated, reviews are missed, or symptoms are not taken seriously, the consequences can be significant. Negligence in managing long-term conditions can lead to avoidable complications, hospitalisation or lasting disability.

Mental health concerns should be taken seriously in general practice. Sadly, we often hear from families who tried to get help for a loved one only to be turned away or prescribed basic medication without proper assessment. If signs of serious mental distress are missed, and this results in harm or suicide, a claim for doctor negligence may be possible.

If you visited your GP multiple times with symptoms that were not taken seriously, and it later turned out you had a more serious condition, there may be grounds for a claim. We can help assess whether a different course of action would have been expected from a reasonably competent GP.

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the negligent care—or from when you first became aware that something went wrong. However, there are exceptions, particularly if the patient is under 18 or lacks mental capacity. It’s always best to seek legal advice as early as possible.

Yes. Claims are made against the GP’s insurer or relevant NHS body, not the individual doctor personally. The fact that they have moved on or retired does not prevent you from bringing a claim if negligence occurred.

Prescription errors by GPs can lead to serious side effects, allergic reactions, or worsening of your condition. If your doctor prescribed the wrong drug, incorrect dose, or failed to check for contraindications, and you were harmed as a result, this may form the basis of a GP negligence claim.