By: Adv. Moshe Taieb | Lev-Taieb Law Firm

Medical Malpractice: Patient Rights and How to Obtain Compensation

Medical malpractice is considered one of the most complex areas of Israeli law. Every patient harmed as a result of a medical error or negligence by the medical team has rights and must know how to enforce them.

What Is Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional fails to meet the expected standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. This can include misdiagnosis, surgical errors, improper treatment, or failure to obtain informed consent.

Patient Rights Under Israeli Law

Israeli law provides robust protections for patients. The Patient Rights Law guarantees every patient the right to receive appropriate medical treatment, full disclosure of their medical condition, and informed consent before any procedure. Violations of these rights can form the basis of a legal claim.

How to File a Medical Malpractice Claim

Before filing a claim, it is essential to obtain all medical records and have them reviewed by an independent medical expert. A qualified lawyer experienced in medical malpractice will help assess the strength of the case, identify all liable parties, and determine the appropriate compensation.

Types of Compensation Available

Compensation in medical malpractice cases can include: pain and suffering, loss of earnings (past and future), costs of ongoing medical care, loss of quality of life, and in severe cases, compensation for permanent disability.

The Statute of Limitations

In Israel, medical malpractice claims generally must be filed within seven years of the date of injury, or within three years of the date the patient became aware of the harm. Acting promptly is critical to preserving your legal rights.