The Claim Journey

Obstetrics and Gynaecology is an increasingly high-risk specialty regarding medical litigation. The majority of clinicians will be involved in medical litigation during their careers. Litigation can have a negative impact on doctors and their practice, but as it is now a common occurrence clinicians need to understand how a claim arises and the subsequent sequence of events. It is important that doctors involved in litigation cases conduct themselves in an appropriate manner with full cooperation. It is equally important that professionals are open and honest regarding their involvement. This chapter deals with the pathway along which a claim may or may not progress and highlights the roles played by both legal and medical professionals.