Costly, inequitable clinical negligence system must be tackled urgently
Post date: 10/07/2026 | Time to read article: 1 minsThe information within this article was correct at the time of publishing. Last updated 10/07/2026
Commenting on the 2025-26 NHS Resolution annual report, Steven Davies, Head of Legal Services at Medical Protection, said:
“At a time when the NHS faces immense pressure to improve patient care and modernise services, it is right to question whether the staggering sums paid out on NHS clinical negligence claims - £3.2bn in 2025/2026 - are sustainable. With NHS Resolution estimating future liabilities of more than £60 billion, clinical negligence remains one of the Government’s biggest financial burdens.
“The high cost of clinical negligence also impacts on healthcare professionals not protected through a state-backed indemnity scheme – such as private practitioners and dentists – who bear the cost of protecting themselves against claims.
“The current system is costly, inequitable and in need of urgent reform. Long-overdue changes must tackle high legal costs as well balance fair compensation for patients, with affordability for the NHS.
“The Government tasked David Lock KC with undertaking a review of clinical negligence costs, with advice due to be provided in autumn 2025. We look forward to an update on progress or recommendations.”
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