While malpractice filings have declined nearly 20% in 10 years, the severity of claims is rising, according to a new analysis from Claggett, Sykes & Garza Trial Lawyers. In 2024 alone, payouts reached $4.93 billion, averaging $433,000 per case.
Here are five key findings:
1. There were a total of 50,555 malpractice and disciplinary action reports in 2024, with 39,167 adverse action reports and remaining 11,388 medical malpractice payment reports.
2. Complaints included 12,655 against registered nurses, 12,299 against physicians (MD), 5,851 against practical nurses and 1,385 complaints against physicians (DO).
3. Michigan recorded the highest rate of complaints, with 87.3 reports per 1,000 providers.
4. Registered nurses accounted for 25% of all complaints. With a risk level 2.3 times higher than average, their large patient volumes leave them particularly vulnerable, according to the analysis. Practical nurses made up 11.6% of cases.
5. Physicians (MD) represented 24.3% of cases.
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