A February 2023 article from Michigan Public reveals a troubling trend: nurses across Michigan report increased patient deaths due to understaffing. A Michigan Nurses Association (MNA) poll of 400 nurses found that 42% knew of a patient death linked to excessive workloads in 2023, nearly double the 22% reported in 2016. Several nurses describe chaotic shifts where they juggle critical patients alone. Hospital leaders deny these claims, asserting that understaffing doesn’t directly cause deaths, but the data suggests a growing crisis affecting patient safety.
How understaffing ties to medical malpractice
If you think you or a loved one has experienced medical malpractice due to understaffing, this issue hits close to home. When nurses handle too many patients, errors—such as missed medications or delayed care—can occur, potentially harming you or a loved one. Michigan law recognizes medical malpractice when healthcare providers fail to meet the standard of care, causing injury or death. The MNA poll aligns with a 2023 University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing study, which found that 60% of over 9,000 surveyed nurses reported inadequate staffing, linking it to poor patient outcomes.
Understaffing doesn’t excuse negligence; it can strengthen your claim by showing systemic failures. Michigan’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the incident—or six months from discovery—to file a lawsuit.
Steps to pursue justice for malpractice
You can take action if understaffing harms you. Here’s how to proceed under Michigan law:
- Gather evidence: Collect medical records, witness statements and notes on staffing issues you observed.
- Consult an attorney: Michigan requires an affidavit of merit from a healthcare professional to file a claim. An attorney can help you meet this requirement.
- File your claim: Submit your case within the legal time frame to seek compensation for damages such as medical costs or pain and suffering.
After these steps, your attorney will guide you through the court process. The understaffing crisis underscores the urgency of holding providers accountable. You can seek justice—act promptly to address your medical malpractice claim.