Medical Malpractice - FAQs

Q. What constitutes medical malpractice?

Medical malpractice is a broad term that covers any kind of injury or wrongful death sustained due to negligence of a healthcare professional or institution. It is impossible to list all the cases, but simply put, medical malpractice does not have to be limited to doctors, and can include nurses, technicians, hospital workers, pharmacists, dentists or even healthcare institutions, nursing homes and/or drug companies. Suits can be brought for sub-standard medical care, injury, complications and/or errors.

Q. Is there a time limit on bringing a malpractice claim?

Yes, there is a statute of limitations, which means a time limit to bring a medical malpractice suit. In fact, each US state has its own statute of limitations and it is therefore important to find out what your state requirements are. There may also be additional requirements depending on whether the negligent healthcare professional is a private or public employee.

Q. What medical errors can result in a medical malpractice case?

It is difficult to summarize all the medical errors that can lead to a medical malpractice case. However, there are generalizations that can be made, in terms of most common medical errors that can occur: misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, mistakes in medication, allergic reactions and unforeseen complications. Obviously medical malpractice cases are not limited to these errors.