Medical malpractice is a legal cause of action that occurs when a medical or health care professional, through a negligent act or omission, deviates from standards in their profession, thereby causing injury to a patient. The negligence might arise from errors in diagnosis, treatment, aftercare or health management.

What is considered medical malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a health care provider gives substandard treatment that causes harm to a patient.

What is the difference between medical malpractice and medical negligence?

When a medical provider's actions or inactions fail to meet the medical standard of care, their behavior constitutes medical negligence. If their medical negligence causes their patient to suffer an injury, it becomes medical malpractice.