Introduction
Medication errors are one of the most common forms of clinical negligence, yet they often go unnoticed until harm occurs. These mistakes can happen in hospitals, pharmacies, or even during routine GP visits. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself — and when you may have a legal claim.
1. What Counts as a Medication Error?
Medication errors include:
- Prescribing the wrong drug or dosage
- Dispensing errors at the pharmacy
- Administering medication incorrectly
- Failing to check for allergies or drug interactions
2. Why Do They Happen?
Common causes include:
- Overworked staff and high patient volumes
- Poor communication between healthcare professionals
- Inadequate record-keeping or outdated systems
3. When Can You Make a Claim?
You only have a claim if the incorrect medication causes harm.
This harm can be physical, psychological, or financial. Examples include:
- Severe allergic reaction because a known allergy was ignored
- Organ damage from prolonged use of the wrong medication
- Worsening of your condition because the correct treatment was delayed
- Hospitalisation due to overdose or incorrect drug interactions
If the error was caught early and caused no adverse effects, it’s unlikely to qualify as negligence.
4. How to Protect Yourself
- Always check your prescription and ask questions
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist about allergies and other medications
- Keep a personal record of your treatments
Conclusion
Medication errors are preventable — but when they cause harm, they can have life-changing consequences. At Kearney Law Group, we help patients hold healthcare providers accountable and secure the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for expert advice.
