OH · Health & Medical

Health & Medical in Ohio

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key Ohio Law

Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.113

Ohio requires medical malpractice claims to be filed within one year of discovery of the malpractice under ORC § 2305.113, with a four-year absolute repose period. A 180-day pre-suit notice requirement tolls this period.

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Procedural Details in Ohio

Ohio requires a 180-day pre-suit notice to each defendant health care provider before filing a medical malpractice lawsuit under ORC § 2305.113(B). Service of this notice tolls the statute of limitations for 180 days. Ohio caps non-economic damages at $250,000 or three times the economic damages (up to $350,000), whichever is greater, for most malpractice cases — with exceptions for permanent and substantial physical deformity, loss of limb, or vegetative state. Ohio applies modified comparative fault (51% bar). The State Medical Board of Ohio investigates physician complaints.

Ohio Agencies & Resources

State Medical Board of Ohio

Licenses and disciplines physicians in Ohio; investigates complaints about professional conduct and standard of care.

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Ohio Department of Health

Oversees hospital licensing and patient safety regulations in Ohio.

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Ohio Department of Insurance

Regulates health insurance and handles consumer complaints in Ohio.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Ohio?

ORC § 2305.113 provides one year from discovery of the malpractice, with a four-year absolute repose period. Before filing, Ohio requires 180-day pre-suit notice to each defendant under § 2305.113(B), which tolls the SOL during that window.

What are Ohio's non-economic damage caps in malpractice cases?

Ohio caps non-economic damages at $250,000 or three times economic damages (up to $350,000 per plaintiff) for most cases. However, caps do not apply to cases involving permanent and substantial physical deformity, loss of use of a limb, or permanent physical functional injury. Economic damages are uncapped.

What is Ohio's 180-day pre-suit notice requirement?

Under ORC § 2305.113(B), plaintiffs must serve written notice of intent to file a malpractice claim on each prospective defendant provider at least 180 days before filing suit. This notice tolls the one-year statute of limitations for 180 days. Failure to provide proper notice can affect the case.

How do I file a complaint against a physician in Ohio?

Complaints against Ohio physicians may be submitted to the State Medical Board of Ohio online at med.ohio.gov. The Board investigates and may impose conditions, suspend, or revoke a medical license. Board proceedings are separate from civil litigation and do not toll the SOL.

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By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026