What is the purpose of statutes of limitations in malpractice suits?

• A. To limit the time to bring a lawsuit after discovery of injury
• B. To increase damages
• C. To determine standard of care
• D. To require informed consent

Answer: (A)

Statutes of limitations set a deadline for filing a lawsuit. In medical malpractice, this deadline is often tied to when the patient discovers the injury (or should have discovered it), not when the negligent act occurred. This timing protects evidence, promotes timely resolution, and provides certainty for both patients and providers. It also recognizes that some injuries are not immediately apparent, so the clock starts when the harm is discovered.

The other ideas don’t fit this purpose: limits on damages are about remedies, not timing; the standard of care is determined by professional rules and expert testimony, not by filing deadlines; and informed consent relates to disclosure before treatment, not to how long you have to sue after harm occurs.