Pennsylvania
Statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania medical-malpractice claims generally use the two-year injury/death limitations period in 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524(2). Discovery-rule questions, certificates of merit, minors, death/survival claims, and medical-professional-liability repose issues can materially affect the filing strategy.
SoL period
2 years
From the date the cause of action accrues
Important: This row states the general two-year limitations period; medical malpractice can involve separate certificate-of-merit and repose questions.
Compute your deadline
Filing deadline
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Where this rule comes from
Statute
42 Pa.C.S. § 5524(2)
"Actions to recover damages for injuries to the person caused by wrongful act, neglect, unlawful violence, or negligence must be commenced within 2 years."
Read the full statute
Last verified May 7, 2026
by Juryvine Editorial
What can extend or pause this clock
Discovery rule.
Pennsylvania recognizes discovery-rule principles in appropriate medical-negligence cases, but the fact pattern matters.
Frequently asked
- What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Pennsylvania?
- 2 years from the date the cause of action accrues. Authority: 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524(2).
- What if the injury wasn't immediately apparent?
- Pennsylvania recognizes discovery-rule principles in appropriate medical-negligence cases, but the fact pattern matters.
Medical Malpractice statute by state
Other Pennsylvania statutes of limitations
Not legal advice.
Statutes of limitations are governed by complex doctrine with many exceptions.
Use this page as a starting point and verify with an attorney before relying on
any deadline. Juryvine is not a law firm and does not represent clients.