Compensation for delayed cancer surgery

Six patients have received compensation for delayed cancer surgeries in the abdominal region at Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark. According to the Danish Patient Compensation’s website, which updates weekly, from a total of 98 applicants, 75 have been denied, with 17 cases pending. The issue was highlighted in Spring 2023 when it was revealed that over 300 patients waited longer than the mandatory 14 days for surgery. Karen-Inger Bast, director of the Danish Patient Compensation, stated that compensation is only granted if the patient suffered harm, not merely due to errors or delays. She noted that few patients are eligible because the delays were relatively short and did not likely worsen their prognosis or treatment intensity. A total compensation of two million kroner was granted, with 1.6 million from a single case involving severe complications unrelated to the delay. Regional authorities, in this case, Region Midtjylland, are responsible for paying the compensations, which can be appealed by any involved party.