Enable Law acted for Monica*, who suffered prolonged symptoms, repeated invasive investigations and significant anxiety following a failure by an NHS Trust to diagnose and treat large bowel polyps within an appropriate timeframe. Monica was supported throughout her claim by Paula Barnes, a specialist clinical negligence lawyer at Enable Law.
Background
Monica began experiencing altered bowel habits, urgency, increased frequency, indigestion and abdominal discomfort. Her GP arranged blood and stool tests and referred her to the Defendant Trust under the 14‑day suspected cancer pathway.
Monica underwent a colonoscopy at the Trust’s hospital, where clinicians identified one large polyp and one smaller polyp. She was told that the polyps were not cancerous but would require removal and was advised that a polypectomy would be arranged within three months.
Despite this reassurance, no procedure was scheduled and no further action was taken. Monica’s symptoms worsened and she repeatedly chased the Trust for answers. Feeling increasingly worried and unsupported, she eventually sought a private referral, where further tests triggered a second urgent suspected cancer referral.
Ongoing delays and worsening symptoms
Eighteen months after her original colonoscopy, Monica was seen again at the Defendant hospital and underwent a second colonoscopy. By this time, the polyps had grown significantly, and concerns were raised about whether they could be safely removed.
Polyp removal did not take place until two years after the initial investigation. Four months later, Monica was required to undergo yet another colonoscopy to remove additional polyps.
It was alleged that the Trust failed to act upon and communicate the outcome of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting following Monica’s initial investigation. It was further alleged that the Trust failed to arrange polyp removal within a reasonable timeframe, resulting in an avoidable delay of approximately 16–18 months before definitive treatment.
The impact on Monica
As a result of the delay, Monica underwent multiple additional and invasive procedures, including repeated colonoscopies, CT scanning, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and a second polyp removal procedure.
For more than two years, she suffered ongoing abdominal pain and cramping, bloating, flatulence, altered bowel habits, malaise and fatigue. Alongside the physical symptoms, Monica experienced significant psychological distress and anxiety caused by the prolonged nature of her illness and repeated fears that she may have cancer.
Throughout this time, Paula Barnes ensured that Monica felt listened to, supported and reassured. Paula took time to explain each stage of the legal process clearly, handled communication with the Trust on Monica’s behalf, and progressed the claim at a pace that reflected Monica’s health and wellbeing.
How Enable Law helped
From the outset, Enable Law placed Monica’s wellbeing at the centre of the case. Paula Barnes worked closely with Monica to understand the full impact of the delays on her daily life, both physically and emotionally. Detailed medical evidence was obtained to support the claim, along with a comprehensive schedule of financial losses.
Following service of a formal Letter of Claim, the Defendant Trust admitted liability. The claim was resolved through a negotiated settlement, providing Monica with compensation for the pain, suffering, distress and losses she endured as a result of the delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Why this case matters
This case highlights the serious consequences that can arise when investigations and treatment are not followed through in a timely way, particularly where patients are referred under urgent cancer pathways. It also demonstrates the importance of having specialist legal support that not only understands the medical and legal issues, but also prioritises care, communication and compassion.
How we can help you
At Enable Law, our specialist clinical negligence lawyers regularly support clients who have been harmed by missed or delayed diagnoses and failures in treatment. We understand how distressing prolonged uncertainty, repeated procedures and concerns about serious illness can be, and we take care to support our clients with clarity, compassion and reassurance throughout their claim.
While we cannot undo what has happened, we can help secure the compensation needed to recognise the impact of negligent care, support recovery, and provide reassurance and financial security for the future.
If you are concerned that delays or failures in your medical care have caused you harm, Paula Barnes or another member of our specialist team would be happy to speak with you. To arrange a free, confidential discussion, call us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so we can call you back at a time convenient for you.
*Name has been changed.
