Published by Arfaa Law Group
Prisoners rely entirely on correctional healthcare providers for medical treatment, and when care is delayed or denied, the consequences can be severe. As a recent Maryland medical malpractice ruling demonstrates, however, a successful lawsuit against prison medical staff requires more than allegations of inadequate treatment. Courts demand strict compliance with Maryland’s Health Care Malpractice Claims Act before any malpractice action may proceed. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to inadequate medical care, consulting an experienced Baltimore medical malpractice attorney is essential to understanding your rights and options.
Case Setting
It is alleged that the plaintiff, an inmate at Roxbury Correctional Institution, experienced ongoing pain in his right knee beginning in March 2023. He sought treatment from prison medical staff and was provided ibuprofen, topical pain relief, an ace wrap, and eventually a cane. He reported worsening instability and asked for further evaluation, including an MRI. The plaintiff asserted that the defendants, including a physician assistant, failed to provide adequate follow-up care, failed to ensure timely prescription renewals, and gave him an improper knee brace.
It is reported that medical records attached to the complaint reflected multiple visits with nurses and providers. An X-ray was ordered and performed, which showed no fracture or swelling, though it noted an MRI could be considered if symptoms persisted. The physician assistant subsequently ordered a more supportive knee brace and continued pain management measures. Despite this, the plaintiff alleged he remained in daily pain, did not receive the brace promptly, and never received the MRI he requested.
It is alleged that the plaintiff filed a lawsuit in which, among other things, he raised state-law malpractice claims and requested both damages and injunctive relief in the form of a court-ordered MRI. The defendant moved to dismiss the plaintiff’s claims.
Procedural Requirements in Maryland Medical Malpractice Cases
On review, the court emphasized that under Maryland’s Health Care Malpractice Claims Act, any medical negligence claim must first be filed with the Health Care Alternative Dispute Resolution Office, along with a certificate of a qualified expert. Because the plaintiff did not comply with these requirements, any malpractice claim was subject to dismissal without prejudice. The court noted that Maryland law strictly enforces this exhaustion requirement before a malpractice claim may proceed in state or federal court.
The district court granted the physician assistant’s motion to dismiss, finding that any state malpractice claim was barred for failure to comply with Maryland’s statutory prerequisites. Finally, the court denied the plaintiff’s request for a preliminary injunction requiring an MRI, noting that he had not demonstrated a likelihood of success on the merits.
Talk to a Skilled Baltimore Medical Malpractice Attorney
Litigating medical negligence claims against correctional healthcare providers involves navigating both constitutional standards and strict procedural rules under Maryland law. If you or a loved one has been harmed by inadequate or delayed medical treatment, the Baltimore medical malpractice attorneys at Arfaa Law Group can provide the guidance and advocacy needed to pursue justice. Call our office at (410) 889-1850 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation and learn more about your legal options.