The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland welcomes the announcement that the Personal Injury Discount Rate (PIDR) in England and Wales has been increased.
From 11 January 2025, the PIDR in England and Wales will be +0.5%, increasing from the previous rate of -0.25%. This follows Scotland and Northern Ireland, who increased the rate to the same figure earlier in the year.
The PIDR is used to calculate compensation in personal injury claims and to account for all expected future losses and costs, such as loss of earnings. The rate aims to balance the need to fully compensate claimants while avoiding both under- and over-compensation.
Responding to the announcement, Chris Kenny, Chief Executive of MDDUS, said:
“The decision to increase the personal injury discount rate is a welcome step forward from the disproportionately low figure currently in place.
“But the Lord Chancellor’s decision acknowledges that this new rate could still allow for significant over-compensation.
“The case for more ambitious reform to protect both NHS funds in total and the position of individual healthcare practitioners therefore remains as strong as ever.”
ENDS
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) is a mutual organisation that protects the professional interests of more than 65,000 doctors and dentists across the United Kingdom, offering access to indemnity, support and legal advice.
For further information please contact Mareth Burns, junior communications officer, on mburns1@mddus.com.
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.