40,000 patients affected by cervical screening error

Some 40,000 patients are affected by the recent cervical screening error that has led to thousands of letters not being sent out.

Of the 40,000 affected, some 4,000 were in relation to test results that never went out. Up to 200 of those reportedly showed abnormal results where women will have likely needed swift intervention if cancer has been identified.

The number of patients affected is staggering, and this isn’t the first time a simple error has led to a significant blunder of this nature. We’re representing victims of the NHS breast screening scandal where letters for screening didn’t go out due to an IT error.

How could the NHS cervical screening error affect patients?

This NHS cervical screening error may mean that women who needed further treatment and investigation have not been told what to do. It may also mean that women in need of check-ups and scans have not been notified, and test results have not reached patients either.

The error period is said to be between January and June this year. For those who should have received a latter in January, a significant delay could result in serious consequences.

Anyone who has suffered as a result of the cervical screening error causing delay may be able to claim compensation.

Who’s to blame for the NHS cervical screening error?

The blame for the NHS cervical screening error lies with the company who have been outsourced to carry out the work; Capita.

Capita have admitted that the cause of the error was down to the “uploading, organising and checking” process not being adhered to. A senior manager at Capita has reportedly left their position, and disciplinary action is said to be taking place.

Capita has apologised for the error.

The BMA (British Medical Association) has said that the cervical screening error is “frankly appalling”. They have referred to the quality of Capita’s services on the whole as “nothing short of shambolic”.

In a statement from Dr Richard Vautrey of the BMA, he said:

“We know that, because of the nature of this procedure, many patients are already reluctant to attend these appointments, and therefore reminder letters are crucial. Incidents like this, therefore, will hardly inspire confidence in the system and risk even fewer women getting checked.”

Need advice about the cervical screening error issue?

If you need advice about the cervical screening error issue, you can contact the Group Action Lawyers for specialist help and advice.