The trust that runs Boston’s Pilgrim Hospital has paid out £37m in damages to families affected by cerebral palsy due to negligence in the last 11 years.
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust (ULHT) had 11 incidents in that period, data collated by a medical negligence law firm claims.
Lime Solicitors said the results of its Freedom of Information requests to trusts across the country reveal one in 14 cerebral palsy cases could have been avoided since 2012.
It is a lifelong condition that affects movement and co-ordination.
Nikki Fahey, medical negligence partner at Lime Solicitors, said: “One of the main causes of cerebral palsy is hypoxic brain injury during childbirth, which is where a baby’s brain gets starved of oxygen.
“Sometimes, this cannot be prevented or it is impossible to work out what caused the child’s injuries.
“However, negligent mistakes by healthcare professionals can lead to a child sustaining a hypoxic brain injury.
“Errors can include delayed delivery, birth injuries, failing to respond to the umbilical cord being wrapped around a baby’s neck, and missing signs of foetal distress, such as meconium.
“The regularity of maternity ward scandals in the press is alarming, yet wholly unsurprising; negligent injuries resulting in cerebral palsy should not take place and we know the lessons that should have been learned, but unfortunately time and time again, the same mistakes are made.”
ULHT medical director Dr Colin Farquharson said in response: “NHS Resolution settles litigation claims on behalf of all NHS Trusts, and any funds paid out in litigation cases are not paid by ULHT but are covered by the premium paid each year to NHS Resolution.
“While we are not able to comment on the specific detail of the claims referred to in this Freedom of Information request made to NHS Resolution, we acknowledge that any failure to provide care to the high standards we expect can impact upon our patients and their loved ones.
“This is why we take every opportunity to listen to those receiving our care and to learn from our mistakes, acting openly and honestly when those standards are not met.
“We remain committed to continual improvement in the care and support offered to everyone using our services.”
