What defines malpractice in the medical field?

In the medical field, malpractice is primarily defined as the failure to render proper services, which encompasses any act or omission by a healthcare professional that deviates from the accepted standard of care, resulting in harm to a patient. This can include errors in diagnosis, treatment, aftercare, or health management, leading to negative outcomes that could have been avoided if the appropriate standard of care had been exercised.

The notion of "proper services" is tied to what is considered a reasonable and competent level of care that a similarly trained professional would provide under similar circumstances. Therefore, failure to meet these standards can lead to legal ramifications for the healthcare provider, as it indicates negligence in their duty to provide safe and competent care to patients. Understanding this definition helps underline the importance of adhering to established protocols and guidelines in medical practice to protect patient safety and ensure effective treatment.