Doctors are facing unprecedented increases in claims for compensation for clinical negligence, according to the Medical Defence Union, the mutual organisation that indemnifies doctors and dentists against claims for negligence and malpractice.

In its Annual Report for 2011, published on 10 August, the MDU said the medico-legal challenges faced by doctors are "unmatched in the company's 126-year history".

In a statement, the MDU said that, during 2011, it opened 17% more medical claims files, saw an 18% rise in requests for assistance with GMC investigations and a 56% increase in disciplinary cases against GP and hospital doctor members, compared to the previous year.

MDU chief executive Dr Christine Tomkins said: "Our members are turning to us for support and advice at a time of unprecedented change in both the medico-legal climate and their working environment. There has been a sharp increase in the number of complaints to the GMC, though there is no evidence of a drop in professional standards. The number and cost of negligence claims against doctors is also rising.

"Doctors face regulatory challenges, such as the introduction of revalidation later this year and, for GP practices, registration with the Care Quality Commission in 2013. Inevitably, this means more members are turning to the MDU for advice and assistance."

She went on to say that 30,000 members had contacted the MDU's 24-hour helplines last year for expert medico-legal advice.

"We successfully rebut 70% of medical claims against our members and we have a proven record of speaking out in members' interests," she said. "For example, in the Annual Report, we explain how we took an active part in a number of consultations aimed at curbing the disproportionate legal costs in 'no win no fee' cases. The resulting changes are due to take effect in April 2013 and will, we believe, lead to a more level playing field in this area."