Neurology is a precarious specialty. Many neurological disorders are difficult to diagnose, and many neurological treatments are risky. Neurological error also imposes a high burden on patients, often resulting in death or permanent injury. It is therefore not surprising that the frequency and cost of neurological medical malpractice are high.

Neurology has the highest average indemnity payment of all specialties, and neurological malpractice cases are the most difficult to defend. The most common reason for neurological litigation is diagnostic error. This may manifest as wrong, missed, or delayed diagnosis. Diagnostic error is also responsible for the highest negligence payouts.

Neurological malpractice claims are often the result of incomplete or inaccurate neurological examination. Whilst neurologists and neurosurgeons bear the greatest burden of neurological malpractice cases, no group of doctors are immune from the frightening prospect of neurological medical negligence claims. Notable ‘victims’ include general physicians, orthopaedic surgeons, and emergency physicians. General practitioners are also at high risk of neurological negligence claims.