Health & Medical in Connecticut
Key Connecticut Law
Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-584
Connecticut requires medical malpractice actions to be filed within two years of the act or omission giving rise to the claim, or within two years of when the injury was discovered, under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-584, with a three-year absolute repose period.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Connecticut
Connecticut Agencies & Resources
Connecticut Medical Examining Board
Licenses and disciplines physicians in Connecticut; investigates complaints about professional conduct.
Connecticut Department of Public Health
Oversees hospital licensing and patient safety regulations in Connecticut.
Connecticut Insurance Department
Regulates health insurance and handles consumer complaints in Connecticut.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Connecticut?
Connecticut provides a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the malpractice or discovery under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-584, with a three-year absolute repose period. This means claims are generally extinguished three years after the act, regardless of when discovered.
Does Connecticut require a certificate of merit or good faith certificate?
Yes. Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 52-190a, plaintiffs must file a good faith certificate (signed by the attorney) along with a written opinion from a similar health care provider at the time of filing. Courts have dismissed cases for failure to comply, though some courts allow a 30-day cure period.
Does Connecticut cap medical malpractice damages?
No. Connecticut has no statutory cap on medical malpractice damages, including non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. This is a significant distinction from states like California or Colorado, and may make Connecticut a more favorable jurisdiction for plaintiffs with severe injuries.
How do I file a complaint against a physician in Connecticut?
Complaints against physicians may be filed with the Connecticut Medical Examining Board through the Department of Public Health. You may submit complaints online through the DPH portal. The Board can impose conditions, suspend, or revoke a medical license. A board complaint is entirely separate from a civil lawsuit.
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 Connecticut?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.