Patients who have been injured by medical malpractice usually have three kinds of damages available through a lawsuit:
General damages — General malpractice compensation covers physical and mental pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium.
Special damages — Malpractice special damages are those that can be quantified, such as damages for lost wages, missed work, or medical bills.
Punitive damages — Medical malpractice punitive damages are meant to punish a physician or medical facility for egregious conduct (e.g., intentionally injuring patients). These are rare when dealing with medical malpractice.