Negligence is a broad term for any act or omission that deviates from the standard of medical care. For instance, this can be failing to administer a test, being careless during a surgical procedure, or not starting a C-section soon enough. Malpractice refers to negligence on the part of a medical professional that results in harm or injury to the patient. Anyone can be negligent, but only professionals held to a certain standard of care can commit malpractice.