The Difference Between Medical Errors and Medical Malpractice
                     The Difference 
Between Medical 
Errors and Medical 
MUndearstalnpdingr thae dcisttinciticon ebetween medical errors and 
malpractice is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike. 
This presentation will clarify these terms, their implications, and 
why it matters.
What Is a Medical Error?
Unintentional Mistakes Common Examples Care Standards Adhered
An medical error is an • Wrong medication dosage Medical errors can occur even 
unintentional mistake made by • Delayed diagnosis when providers meticulously 
healthcare professionals during follow accepted standards of 
• Surgical errors (e.g., 
diagnosis, treatment, or care. care. They are often a result of 
operating on the wrong site)
These can range from minor human fallibility or systemic 
oversights to significant issues rather than direct 
incidents. negligence.
What Is Medical Malpractice?
Failure to Meet Standards
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails 
to meet the accepted standard of care due to negligence or 
recklessness, directly causing harm to the patient.
Direct Causation of Harm
For an act to be considered malpractice, there must be a 
direct link between the provider's negligent action (or 
inaction) and the patient's resulting injury or harm.
Clear Examples
• Leaving surgical instruments inside a patient
• Misdiagnosis that leads to severe patient harm
• Prescribing the wrong medication due to clear negligence
Key Differences
Medical Error Medical Malpractice
May or may not cause harm; often an unavoidable Requires proven negligence and breach of 
mistake. No inherent legal liability. standard care causing injury. Involves legal liability 
and potential compensation.
It's vital to understand that not all medical errors rise to the level of malpractice. Malpractice specifically involves a 
legal standard of care that was violated, leading to patient harm.
Why Understanding the Difference Matters
01 02 03
Patient Safety & System Legal Claims & CompensatioCnrucial Consultations
Improvements
Understanding malpractice is If you suspect harm due to medical 
Recognizing medical errors helps essential for patients seeking legal negligence, consulting experienced 
identify areas for systemic recourse and compensation for harm legal and medical professionals is 
improvement in healthcare, fostering caused by negligence. paramount to assess your options.
a safer environment for all patients.
Need Legal Help? Contact Us
For Medical Malpractice Personal Injury 
lawyer in Houston
Phone: 713-893-8808
Address: 3663 N. Sam Houston Parkway East, 
6th Floor #200, Houston, Texas 77032