20-year-old receives €14.5M settlement for misdiagnosed heel prick test, leading to brain damage and lifelong care.

A 20-year-old man with irreversible brain damage has received a €14.5 million settlement after a misdiagnosed heel prick test under Ireland's newborn screening program. The failure to properly test and diagnose a metabolic disorder led to cognitive impairment, requiring him to have 24-hour care. His mother sought medical help 38 times in two years before the correct diagnosis was made. Children’s Health Ireland admitted liability and issued an apology for the failings.