The average medical malpractice payment in Minnesota for 2022 was $353,644. Going back to 2004, the average malpractice payment in the database is $445,729.
In 2022, there were 38 medical malpractice payments made in Minnesota. Among all of the various jurisdictions, this ranked number 42 out of 59 in terms of raw numbers, but when viewed in terms of claims per capita, Minnesota ranked number 53 of 59, which includes the 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and Armed Forces populations.
Across the country, the most common allegations giving rise to medical malpractice payments are "Failure to Diagnose" and "Improper Performance." Minnesota is among those jurisdictions for which the top allegation appearing in the database is "Failure to Diagnose." The second most frequent allegation appearing for Minnesota in the database is "Improper Performance."
Among all claims, the vast majority (about 70%) of the payments are associated with care provided by MDs. Minnesota is no exception. The second highest type of healthcare provider associated with malpractice claims in Minnesota is a dentist.
Minnesota requires an affidavit of expert review prior to starting a lawsuit for malpractice against a healthcare professional. Minn. Stat. 145.682. Further, after the case is filed, a claimant has approximately 180 days to serve detailed affidavits or opinions from experts establishing each aspect of the claim.
Upon service of this expert opinion, these affidavits are subject to challenge by motion that can result in the case being dismissed with prejudice.
Minnesota does not implement caps on damages in medical negligence cases. Jurors may award both economic and noneconomic damages for any amount. It is worth noting that some municipal and state healthcare providers may have limited liability by statute.
The statute of limitations in Minnesota for medical malpractice is generally four years from the date of the negligent care.
Unlike most other states, Minnesota does not recognize a "discovery rule" that would extend the time limit for injuries that are discovered years after the negligence.
Average Payment (2004-2022): $445,729
Total Payments in Database (2004-2022): 1,448
Average Payment (2022): $353,644
Total Number of Payments (2022): 38
Rank in Average Payment (2022): 34
Rank in Number of Payments Per Capita (2022): 53 of 59 Jurisdictions
Most Common Allegation (2022): Failure to Diagnose
Most Common Allegation in 2021: Improper Performance
Most Common Nature of Claim (2022): Diagnosis Related - 43% of all payments
Type of Provider with Most Payments: Physician (MD)