Obstetric litigation - time to reflect?

Abstract

Invariably there is an unhappy story behind every case of litigation involving obstetric care where a child has been compromised. Families live with the consequences, and, if litigating, obviously feel somebody is at fault and the claimants deserve compensation. Even if the doctor's care was exemplary, the doctor too will be distressed at the outcome, but, if sued, will have to cope with the tensions of litigation. However, the effect spreads further than just those directly involved.