Being a Good Samaritan is ok when you have Medical Indemnity

It is a difficult conundrum. You see someone in need of medical assistance. You have knowledge of what to do, or you are a medical professional, and can help. But do you? In this litigious age it can get you into serious trouble. In other countries like France and the USA they have a  law which is known as the Good Samaritan law. The tale of the Good Samaritan comes from the new testament bible. In the story a man is robbed and beaten. He is left for dead on the roadside where he is ignored by a priest and a senior person in Jewish society. However, he is helped by a passing Samaritan. This was a race of people despised by the Jews at the time. It shows that no matter what the situation, or who they are, generally people want to help those in danger.

Sadly, this is why you may need Medical Indemnity. Although you would think that someone would be grateful for your help there could be a case of malpractice to answer if something goes wrong.  Even if you believe you are doing the right thing this is no defence in the eyes of the law.

The security to you provided by Medical indemnity means that you can help with confidence knowing that even if there is a mistake you are fully covered in terms of cost to yourself.

Summary

This article explains why medical professionals or bystanders may hesitate to help someone in an emergency for fear of legal consequences, contrasting the UK position with Good Samaritan laws in countries such as France and the USA. It explains that Medical Indemnity cover lets people help with confidence, covering the cost to them if something goes wrong despite acting in good faith.

Questions this article raises

• Why might someone hesitate to help in a medical emergency without indemnity cover?
• How does the UK’s legal position compare with Good Samaritan laws elsewhere?
• What does Medical Indemnity actually protect a helper against?