What Is the New National Lung Cancer Screening Program?
Starting in July 2025, Australia will introduce a national lung cancer screening program expected to detect an additional 1,500 cases of lung cancer each year. Over the next decade, this program aims to save 12,000 lives by diagnosing cancer at an earlier and more treatable stage.
Early detection improves access to curative treatment, increases survival rates, and significantly improves a patient’s quality of life.
Can I Claim Compensation for Delayed Cancer Diagnosis?
Yes. Under Australian law, a patient may be eligible to claim medical negligence compensation if their cancer diagnosis was unreasonably delayed and it can be shown that:
- Earlier diagnosis would have reduced the cancer’s size, stage, or grade.
- The delay led to more aggressive treatment or diminished life expectancy.
- There was a measurable impact on quality of life or earning capacity.
Common Examples of Medical Negligence in Delayed Cancer Diagnosis
Medical negligence relating to delayed diagnosis can include a failure to:
- Detect symptoms that may indicate cancer
- Investigate clinical signs (e.g. breast lump) in a timely manner
- Refer to a specialist without unnecessary delay
- Review or act upon test results appropriately
- Escalate or implement treatment once a diagnosis is made
What Do I Need to Prove in a Medical Negligence Claim?
To establish a successful claim, you must prove:
- The healthcare provider breached their duty of care; and
- That breach caused harm that would have been avoided if timely diagnosis and treatment had occurred
This often requires expert medical evidence showing how and when your outcome was worsened by the delay.
What Compensation Can I Claim?
If your delayed cancer diagnosis meets the legal threshold for medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life
- Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future loss of income and earning capacity
- Care and domestic assistance
- Home and vehicle modifications if needed
How Stacks Goudkamp Can Help You
At Stacks Goudkamp, we have extensive experience handling complex medical negligence claims — particularly those involving delayed cancer diagnosis. Most of our cases are handled on a No Win, No Fee basis.
Our experienced medical negligence lawyers:
- Work with leading medical experts to evaluate your case
- Collect and analyse necessary medical records and timelines
- Aim to resolve your case as early and efficiently as possible to maximise your compensation
During your initial consultation, we will explain our fee structure and legal process in full, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
