Dr Rob Hendry, Medical Director at Medical Protection Society (MPS), said:

“We welcome the Draft Programme for Government 2025 and the commitments it makes to address the critical issues surrounding medical negligence claims. The commitment to implement the recommendations of the Report of the Interdepartmental Working Group on the Rising Cost of Health-Related Claims is particularly important, as it is a necessary step to improving the efficiency and reducing the financial and emotional toll on patients and doctors.

“The claims process as it currently operates, takes an immense toll on the healthcare professionals involved; many have told us that they considered leaving the profession as a result, and others described the need for mental health support. Some have even experienced suicidal thoughts while undergoing a claim.

“In Ireland, our data shows claims take longer and involve higher legal costs than in every other country where Medical Protection supports members. The average legal cost for a claim in Ireland is €34,646, which is 191% more expensive than in the UK (€11,911). In Ireland, the average claim takes four years (1,462 days) to conclude, which is 56% longer than in the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

“The introduction of pre-action protocols, and other measures recommended by the Interdepartmental Working Group, is essential to ensuring that the claims process is sped up and is more supportive for patients and healthcare professionals alike.”

ENDS

For further information contact [email protected]

About MPS

The Medical Protection Society Limited (“MPS”) is the world’s leading protection organisation for doctors, dentists and healthcare professionals. We protect and support the professional interests of more than 300,000 members around the world. Membership provides access to expert advice and support and can also provide, depending on the type of membership required, the right to request indemnity for any complaints or claims arising from professional practice.

Our in-house experts assist with the wide range of legal and ethical problems that arise from professional practice. This can include clinical negligence claims, complaints, medical and dental council inquiries, legal and ethical dilemmas, disciplinary procedures, inquests and fatal accident inquiries.