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Maryland Medical Malpractice Cases Rise: What Patients Need to Know About Hospital Errors in 2025

  • Writer: Glen Sturtevant
    Glen Sturtevant
  • Sep 17
  • 3 min read

Medical errors in Maryland hospitals have reached alarming levels, with 808 serious incidents reported in 2023 – the highest number in years. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to preventable medical mistakes in Maryland, understanding your legal rights is crucial. As experienced Maryland medical malpractice lawyers, we're breaking down what these statistics mean for patients and families.


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Are Medical Errors Increasing in Maryland Hospitals?

Yes. The Maryland Department of Health reports that serious medical errors resulting in death or severe disability have increased for four consecutive years. The 808 "Level 1 adverse events" recorded in 2023 represent more than three times the average recorded between 2013-2019.


What Types of Medical Errors Are Most Common in Maryland?

Recent cases documented by Maryland health officials include:

Emergency Room Delays: A cardiac patient waited hours for prescribed medication, resulting in cardiac arrest and emergency transfer Equipment Failures: A patient died when oxygen equipment ran out during testing without staff notice Surgical Mistakes: Medical instruments left inside patients requiring additional operations Medication Errors: Wrong dosages or incorrect medications administered Preventable Falls: Patient injuries from inadequate monitoring and safety protocols


What Should You Do After a Medical Error in Maryland?

If you suspect medical negligence caused harm to you or a family member:

  1. Document everything - Keep all medical records, bills, and communication

  2. Seek immediate medical attention if needed

  3. Don't sign anything from the hospital without legal review

  4. Contact a Maryland medical malpractice attorney promptly

  5. Understand time limits - Maryland has specific deadlines for filing claims


Why Are Maryland Hospital Errors Increasing?

Healthcare experts cite several factors contributing to rising medical errors:

  • Staffing shortages affecting patient care quality

  • Increased patient complexity requiring more intensive monitoring

  • COVID-19 pandemic effects on hospital operations and staff

  • Workforce burnout impacting attention to safety protocols


When Do Medical Errors Become Malpractice Cases?

Not every medical error constitutes malpractice. However, you may have a valid Maryland medical malpractice claim if:

  • A healthcare provider failed to meet standard care requirements

  • This failure directly caused your injury or worsened your condition

  • You suffered measurable damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering)

  • The incident occurred within Maryland's statute of limitations


FAQ: Maryland Medical Malpractice Rights

Q: How long do I have to file a medical malpractice lawsuit in Maryland? A: Generally, you have three years from when you discovered the injury, but specific circumstances can affect this timeline.

Q: What compensation is available for Maryland medical error victims? A: Damages may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses related to the medical negligence.

Q: Do I need expert testimony for my Maryland malpractice case? A: Yes, Maryland law typically requires medical expert testimony to establish the standard of care and how it was breached.


Protecting Your Rights After Maryland Hospital Negligence

Maryland's rising medical error rates highlight the importance of patient advocacy and legal protection. If preventable medical mistakes have impacted your family, experienced legal representation can help you navigate complex malpractice laws and pursue fair compensation.


At Rawls Law Group, our medical malpractice attorneys understand the devastating impact of hospital negligence on patients and families. We provide compassionate, experienced representation to help you understand your rights and pursue justice. Contact our medical malpractice lawyers today for a free consultation about your case.


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