Michigan Medical Malpractice Statistics [2024 Updated]

The history of Michigan’s medical malpractice cases is marked by legislative reforms and evolving trends in claims and payouts. Michigan medical malpractice statistics are complex figures to understand which vary by year and case type. In the United States, medical malpractice is a serious issue and healthcare errors result in an estimated 251,000 deaths annually.

In cases of medical malpractice, patients and their loved ones may have the option to file a medical malpractice claim to recoup damages.

What Is Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice is a form of negligence committed by healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and other medical staff. Medical professionals are required to act within the standard of care. When they fail to do so, their errors can result in harm, injury, or death.

Some examples of medical malpractice can include misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, and medication errors. Medical malpractice cases can be complex. They require experience, knowledge, and resources to navigate them properly. In these cases, a plaintiff is typically seeking justice for injuries, medical expenses, wage loss, and sometimes for the death of a loved one.

It is important to speak with an attorney about the specifics of your case to gain a better idea of your potential outcome or path forward.

Michigan Malpractice History

According to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB), death is the most common outcome in medical malpractice cases where payouts are made, followed by significant permanent injuries and minor permanent injuries.

Malpractice litigation is a complex issue, as displayed by gender and age disparities in claim frequency and payout amounts. In Michigan, women receive medical malpractice payments more often than men. Men, however, still receive higher average payouts.

Types of Michigan Malpractice Cases

In Michigan, cases related to obstetrics (birth injuries) tend to have the highest average payouts when adjusted for inflation. Cases related to anesthesia followed closely behind. Others include issues pertaining to:

• Diagnosis.
• Surgery.
• IV and blood products.

Medical malpractice claims in Michigan were mainly filed against physicians, including MDs and DOs. Physicians are responsible for the majority of claims, which is understandable because they are the primary parties responsible for diagnosing and treating patients.

FAQs

Q: Which State Has the Most Medical Malpractice Cases?

A: Medical malpractice is a nationwide issue. Deciphering which state has the “most medical malpractice” depends solely on how you choose to compare the data. California topped the list in 2022 for medical malpractice claims per capita. However, in terms of payouts, New York had the highest total amount of medical malpractice damages paid in 2022.

Contact a Michigan Medical Malpractice Attorney

Navigating Michigan’s medical malpractice laws can be daunting, but with the guidance of our experienced legal team at Goethel Engelhardt, PLLC, you can be assured that your case is in capable hands. If you or a loved one has suffered injury or harm due to medical malpractice, contact us and take the first step toward getting the justice you deserve.