Preparing for a Medical Negligence Enquiry in Ireland

You do not need a complete hospital file or a legal explanation of what went wrong before making an initial enquiry. A short account of your concerns, the main dates and the documents you already have provides a useful starting point.

This guide explains how to prepare for a conversation with Harringtons Medical, the medical negligence department of Harringtons LLP in Dublin.

Write a short timeline

Start with the reason you sought treatment. Note the hospital, clinic or GP practice involved, the approximate dates, what you were told and what happened afterwards. Separate what you remember from information you learned later.

For example, a useful timeline might identify when symptoms began, when a referral was made, when a test took place and when the result was explained. If you are unsure of a date, say so. Do not feel you have to fill every gap.

Describe the concern in your own words

Explain what you would like help understanding. It may concern a delay, an unexpected complication, communication about a procedure or the care provided after discharge. Include the questions that remain unanswered.

Avoid assuming that an unexpected outcome, by itself, proves negligence. An assessment needs to consider the particular care, the available evidence and the consequences. The first conversation helps identify what further information is needed; it is not a promise of a successful claim.

Gather what you already have

Useful material may include appointment letters, discharge summaries, prescriptions, test correspondence, complaint responses and your own dated notes. Keep originals and make copies for reference. Record which provider holds any documents you do not yet have.

The HSE explains that patients can seek access to their records through a subject access request. Its guidance on access to records explains where to send a request and the identification information required.

Prepare questions about the next steps

Ask who would handle the matter, what records may be needed, whether independent expert input may be required and how costs would be explained before work is undertaken. Ask what the next decision point would be and how you would be kept informed.

Mention any upcoming dates, correspondence requiring a response or earlier legal advice. Do not wait for every document before asking about a potentially time-sensitive concern.

Contact Harringtons Medical

Our department is led by David Harrington. You can explore our medical negligence services or contact the team on 01 539 4747.

Our sole office is Kingsbridge House, 17–22 Parkgate Street, Dublin 8, D08 NRP2.

General information for readers in Ireland; individual circumstances require individual advice.