Medical Malpractice in Pennsylvania
Not every bad medical outcome is malpractice — Pennsylvania requires early expert support before a negligence claim against a provider can move forward.
What you should know
To pursue a medical negligence claim in Pennsylvania, a plaintiff must file a certificate of merit confirming that a qualified professional believes the care fell below accepted standards. The MCARE Act governs many aspects of these cases, including certain deadlines and damages.
What typically causes them
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Surgical errors
- Medication and dosage errors
- Birth injuries
- Failure to treat
- Anesthesia mistakes
Injuries we see
- Worsened or untreated conditions
- Surgical complications
- Birth injuries
- Organ damage
- Permanent disability
- Death
Steps to take after a medical malpractice
- 1
Obtain complete medical records
- 2
Seek a second medical opinion
- 3
Document your treatment timeline
- 4
Avoid signing releases
- 5
Note all providers involved
- 6
Consult an attorney experienced in MCARE cases
A certificate of merit is mandatory, and MCARE rules can affect deadlines and venue. These cases are expert-intensive and time-sensitive.
Recovery may include additional medical care, lost income, future care needs, and pain and suffering.
Medical negligence claims are generally subject to a two-year deadline (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524), with specific accrual and MCARE rules that an attorney should evaluate.
Keep reading before you talk to an adjuster
Don't let a Pennsylvania medical malpractice ruin your future.
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