Elaine Mooney, a 54-year-old woman from Dublin, faced severe medical challenges following a routine procedure at The Menopause Hub. After experiencing significant physical and psychological trauma from a poorly inserted Mirena coil, Mooney pursued legal action for negligence and breach of duty. HOMS Assist, her legal representative, secured a settlement and public apology from the clinic. This case not only highlights the importance of patient advocacy but also the crucial duty of care medical practitioners owe their patients.
Introduction
Elaine Mooney’s ordeal began with a visit to The Menopause Hub, a specialist medical practice renowned for offering treatment and services to menopausal women. Situated in Dublin, the clinic caters to a large clientele seeking relief from menopause symptoms through various medical procedures, including the insertion of Mirena intrauterine systems (IUS). Ms Mooney, a long-time patient of the clinic, sought a routine replacement of her Mirena coil—a procedure she never expected would lead to a legal battle and significant trauma.
The Problem
On 14th April 2021, Ms Mooney attended The Menopause Hub for what was supposed to be a standard Mirena coil replacement. During the procedure, the new coil perforated her uterus and entered the pelvic cavity, causing excruciating pain and discomfort. Despite Ms Mooney’s immediate complaints, her concerns were initially dismissed by the clinic as a normal risk associated with the procedure. The lack of adequate pre-assessment and failure to use a uterine sound to determine the correct positioning of the coil were central issues. Furthermore, the clinic’s response to her severe pain was inadequate, culminating in Ms Mooney needing emergency surgery just days later. Left traumatised and in pain, Ms Mooney was determined to seek justice and ensure others would not endure similar suffering.
The Solution
Understanding the gravity of her experience, Ms. Mooney turned to HOMS Assist—an expert legal firm specialising in medical negligence cases. HOMS Assist, led the legal proceedings, advocating fiercely for Ms. Mooney’s rights. The firm meticulously gathered evidence, highlighting the clinic’s failures and the deviation from standard medical care. Through persistent legal efforts, they secured a settlement and a public apology from The Menopause Hub, acknowledging the distress and inconvenience caused to Ms. Mooney. This resolution served not only as a personal victory for Ms. Mooney but also as a broader message to medical practitioners on the importance of maintaining the highest standards of patient care.
Results
The case concluded with Ms. Mooney receiving a substantial settlement for her physical and psychological trauma. The Menopause Hub offered a public apology, read in the High Court, addressing the “pain, suffering, discomfort and inconvenience” experienced by Ms. Mooney due to their treatment. HOMS Assist’s involvement was pivotal in achieving this outcome. HOMS Assist emphasised the need for medical practitioners to uphold their duty of care and urged patients to advocate against complacency in clinical care. Ms. Mooney’s case not only brought her justice but also increased awareness of the risks associated with medical procedures and the necessity for thorough patient assessment and communication.
Conclusion
Elaine Mooney’s ordeal underscores the critical importance of patient advocacy and the duty of care owed by medical practitioners. Her successful legal battle, aided by HOMS Assist, highlights the impact of expert legal representation in medical negligence cases. While this victory brings closure to Ms. Mooney, it also serves as a reminder for continuous improvements in medical practices to prioritise patient safety and care. Moving forward, HOMS Assist remains committed to supporting individuals seeking justice in similar situations. If you or a loved one has experienced medical negligence, we are here to provide expert guidance and support. Contact us today to discuss your case and ensure that your rights are protected.
