2025 Session Last amended: 1999 session

§ 541.076 — Health Care Provider Actions

Plain-Language Summary

Medical malpractice lawsuits in Minnesota must be filed within 4 years from the date the cause of action accrued. This applies to claims against physicians, dentists, hospitals, and other health care providers for malpractice, errors, or failure to cure, whether the claim is based on contract or tort.

Practical Notes
When this applies: When a patient believes they were harmed by a health care provider’s negligence or error. Who this affects: Patients, physicians, surgeons, dentists, occupational therapists, hospitals, treatment facilities, and other health care professionals. Key points: The 4-year deadline is longer than the general 2-year personal injury statute of limitations under section 541.07, giving medical malpractice plaintiffs more time. The clock starts when the cause of action accrues, which is typically when the patient knew or should have known about the injury. A health care provider who sues a patient for unpaid bills may face a malpractice counterclaim even if the malpractice deadline has passed, but the patient cannot recover a judgment on the counterclaim beyond costs.