Loss of a Chance theory

Loss of a Chance theory is a legal concept used in medical negligence cases. It recognizes that a doctor's failure to provide appropriate care may decrease a patient's chances of recovery or survival. Instead of requiring proof that the negligence directly caused harm, the theory allows the patient to claim for the loss of the probability or opportunity to have a better outcome. Essentially, it compensates for the diminished chance of a positive result caused by the healthcare provider’s breach of duty, acknowledging that harm or loss can occur even if the precise causal chain isn't fully established.