Major changes to England’s care system are being introduced today (1st April).
The changes apply to the care system for elderly people as well as that for younger adults with disabilities and are being dubbed the ‘biggest shake-up in the last 60 years’.
It is hoped that the changes will lower the risk of clinical negligence in both the younger and older generations and the greater risk of pressure sores amongst elderly patients.
The Care Act 2014 details the rights of both those receiving care and those providing it to their loved ones and includes standards for carers who visit the homes of patients to help with daily tasks such as washing and dressing.
Clear Law has long expressed its concerns that elderly people typically have a higher chance of developing pressure sores due to an increasingly ageing population and previous cuts to the social care budget, which have meant that some vulnerable patients are not be receiving the care they are entitled to.
Now, major changes are being introduced which will see eligibility criteria established on a national rather than local level and carers given the same right to assessment as those they care for. Before, they needed to provide “substantial care on a regular basis” to qualify for this assessment and it is hoped that such changes will need to a more regimented level of care for older patients.
Fiona Tinsley, Medical Negligence Solicitor at Clear Law said: “We wholeheartedly welcome these changes to the care system and hope that it will reduce cases of negligence amongst all patient groups.”
Pressure sores develop when pressure is applied to the skin for a long period of time, such as when bed-bound patients are not turned regularly enough, leading to cuts in the skin and tissue underneath.
Elderly people are particularly vulnerable to developing pressure sores as they typically remain stationary for longer. Sores can worsen if a patient is not washing – or being washed –correctly.
If you or your loved one has developed pressure sores or suffered another form of clinical negligence and you need legal advice, we can help you. Visit our dedicated website www.medicalnegligence-solicitors.com or call 0800 999 1875 to speak to our experienced team.