Health & Medical in Arkansas
Key Arkansas Law
Arkansas Code Annotated Section 16-114-203
Arkansas requires medical malpractice claims to be filed within two years of the negligent act or omission under Ark. Code Ann. § 16-114-203. A foreign object exception extends this period upon discovery.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Arkansas
Arkansas Agencies & Resources
Arkansas State Medical Board
Licenses and disciplines physicians in Arkansas; investigates complaints about professional conduct and standard of care.
Arkansas Department of Health
Oversees hospital and health facility licensing and patient safety regulations in Arkansas.
Arkansas Insurance Department
Regulates health insurance and handles consumer complaints about coverage denials in Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Arkansas?
Arkansas Code § 16-114-203 provides a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the negligent act. A discovery rule may apply for foreign objects left in the body. Arkansas courts have also addressed tolling for minors, allowing extension until age 18 in some circumstances. Missing the deadline generally bars the claim permanently.
Does Arkansas cap non-economic damages in malpractice cases?
Yes. Arkansas Code § 16-114-207 caps non-economic damages (pain, suffering, mental anguish) in medical malpractice at $500,000. Economic damages — including all medical expenses and lost income — are not subject to this cap and may be recovered in full if proven.
Does Arkansas require pre-suit notice for malpractice?
Arkansas does not have a formal statutory requirement to provide pre-suit notice to a health care provider before filing a medical malpractice lawsuit, unlike some other states. However, consulting with an attorney before filing is strongly advisable given the expert affidavit and procedural requirements.
How do I report a doctor to the Arkansas State Medical Board?
You may file a written complaint with the Arkansas State Medical Board at armedicalboard.org. The Board investigates allegations of professional misconduct, negligence, or license violations. Board disciplinary actions are separate from any civil damages claim and will not compensate you for injuries.
Related Health & Medical Scenarios
Can I sue over incorrect or excessive medical bills?
Legal options when you receive incorrect, inflated, or surprise medical bills that violate billing regulations or the No Surprises Act.
Can I sue for wrongful death caused by medical negligence?
Legal options when a family member dies due to medical negligence, surgical errors, or hospital failures.
Can I sue for a medication or prescription error?
Legal options when pharmacy errors, wrong dosages, dangerous drug interactions, or failure to warn causes patient harm.
Can I sue for delayed cancer diagnosis?
Legal options when a physician's failure to timely diagnose cancer results in disease progression and reduced treatment options.
Have a Specific Situation in Arkansas?
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