Failure to Diagnose Retinal Detachment Leads to £25,000 Settlement

A routine eye examination at Specsavers in 2023 resulted in a Claimant being left with an undiagnosed detached retina. This led to significant and preventable vision loss. The failure to recognise the severity of the condition and provide an urgent hospital referral led to legal action and £25,000 settlement.

During the examination, Specsavers failed to carry out a visual field test, despite NICE guidelines clearly recommending such an assessment in cases of suspected retinal detachment. Furthermore, the Claimant’s medical history and complaint of a sudden change in vision were not given proper consideration. A central field examination was also neglected, which could have provided further insight into the condition.

Specsavers delayed the Claimant and advised them to attend their next routine appointment instead of arranging an immediate hospital referral. As a result of this, the retinal detachment went untreated for far longer than necessary, leading to an irreversible deterioration in the claimant’s vision.

Had the retinal detachment been identified at the time of examination, the vision reduction would have been avoided, and visual acuity would have been significantly better than it was.

Following the incident, the Claimant contacted Forbes Solicitors to make a claim for the injury and loss they had suffered. When Forbes Solicitors contacted the Defendant, they denied substandard treatment but accepted there should have been an earlier referral to hospital which would have resulted in a better outcome.

The case was settled by John Bennett, one of Forbes Solicitors Personal Injury expert solicitors for £25,000.

How Forbes Solicitors Can Help You

Our expert no win no fee solicitors will discuss your clinical negligence claim with you and ascertain whether you have a viable claim and a strong chance of success. We offer services nationwide, we can offer consultation by telephone or video call, or in any of our branches across the UK. Our no win no fee solicitors will focus on recovering maximum compensation for your injuries in the quickest possible time.

If you have experienced an injury or need legal guidance on any matter, our team is here to help. For more information, or to discuss your case, contact our Clincal Negligence division.