Can You Sue Doctors in Turkey? Your Rights, Your Voice, and Your Path Forward
- Zeynep Atım Kurucuk
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
If you or a loved one were harmed during medical treatment in Turkey, the first thing to know is this:
You are not alone — and yes, you can sue a doctor or hospital in Turkey.
Medical malpractice in Turkey is emotionally overwhelming. Many people feel shocked, betrayed, or unsure of what to do next. Whether the issue involved a misdiagnosis, surgical error, cosmetic procedure, dental treatment, or birth injury, Turkish law gives patients the right to seek justice, accountability, and compensation.
What is Medical Malpractice in Turkey, and Which Laws Deal It?
Doctors in Turkey, like everywhere else, have a legal and ethical duty to care for their patients properly. When that duty is broken — and someone is harmed as a result — it may be considered medical negligence or malpractice.
Medical malpractice law in Turkey is based on:
The Turkish Penal Code
The Turkish Code of Obligations
Patient Rights Law
Administrative law for public hospitals
The law exists for one reason: to protect patients.
What Does Medical Negligence Really Mean in Turkey?
Medical negligence isn’t about a bad outcome alone. It’s about avoidable mistakes, such as:
A misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
A surgical error or instrument left inside the body
Anesthesia mistakes
Wrong medication or incorrect dosage
Birth injuries caused by medical negligence
Cosmetic or dental procedures gone wrong
Being treated without proper informed consent
If the doctor failed to act with the care expected of a competent professional — and you were harmed — you may have a valid claim.
Fault (Kusur) vs. Strict Liability — What’s the Difference In The Light of Turkish Laws?
Most medical malpractice cases in Turkey are based on fault (kusur).This means the patient must show that the doctor did something wrong or failed to act properly.
In rare cases, strict liability applies — for example, when harm is caused by defective medical equipment.
To help the court understand what happened, independent medical experts (bilirkişi / adli tıp) review the case.
Can Foreigners and Medical Tourists Sue Doctors in Turkey?
Yes — absolutely.
Whether you came to Turkey for:
Cosmetic surgery
Hair transplant
Dental treatment
Orthopedic surgery
Fertility or birth care
…you have the same legal rights as Turkish patients.
Many international patients successfully pursue claims with the help of English-speaking medical malpractice lawyers in Turkey.
Public vs. Private Hospitals: Why It Matters in Turkey
Private hospitals → Civil compensation lawsuits
Public (state / SGK) hospitals → Administrative lawsuits
Public hospital cases have shorter deadlines, so acting quickly is essential.
The Medical Malpractice Lawsuit Process in Turkey (Step by Step)
We know legal processes can feel intimidating. Here’s what usually happens:
Medical records are gathered
An expert medical opinion is obtained
The lawsuit is filed in the correct court
Court-appointed experts review the case
Hearings take place
The court reaches a decision
You don’t go through this alone — your lawyer guides you at every step.
Time Limits: Don’t Wait Too Long if Want to Sue A Doctor in Turkey
This part is very important.
Most cases must be filed within 2 years of discovering the harm
In some cases, up to 10 years from the treatment
Criminal cases may allow longer periods
Missing a deadline can mean losing your right to sue, no matter how serious the mistake was.
Compensation in Turkey: What Can You Claim?
If malpractice is proven, you may receive compensation for:
Medical expenses
Loss of income or earning capacity
Future treatment costs
Pain, suffering, and emotional distress (manevi tazminat)
There is no fixed amount — compensation is tailored to your situation and the impact on your life.
How Long Does a Case Take in Turkey?
Most medical malpractice cases in Turkey take:
18 months to 3 years
Complex cases may take longer, but many clients find relief simply by being heard and taken seriously.
Complaint or Lawsuit — Which One Do You Need While Suing a Doctor in Turkey?
Ministry of Health complaint
Disciplinary action only
No compensation
Court lawsuit
Financial compensation
Binding legal judgment
You can file both, but a complaint alone does not protect your legal rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Suing a Doctor in Turkey
What are the legal grounds for suing a doctor in Turkey?
Negligence, medical error, misdiagnosis, lack of consent, or breach of professional duty.
What is the process for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit in Turkey?
Evidence collection, expert review, court filing, hearings, and judgment.
What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Turkey?
Usually 2–10 years, depending on the case.
How much compensation can you get?
There is no limit — it depends on the damage and its impact on your life.
Do I need a lawyer to sue a doctor in Turkey?
Legally, no. Practically, yes — malpractice law is complex and expert-driven.
What’s the difference between a Ministry complaint and a lawsuit?
Complaints discipline doctors; lawsuits compensate victims.
What constitutes medical negligence under Turkish law?
Any breach of medical standards that causes harm.
How long does a case take?
On average, 1.5 to 3 years.
What are my chances of winning?
Strong cases with expert support have a high chance of success.
What should I do right now if I’m a victim?
Save records, avoid delays, and speak to a lawyer immediately.
You Deserve Answers. You Deserve Support. You Are Not Alone in Turkey
If something went wrong during your medical treatment, it’s normal to feel angry, confused, or helpless. Seeking legal advice is not about revenge — it’s about accountability, healing, and closure.
We’re Here to Help – Kurucuk & Associates – Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Turkey
Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Istanbul Who Truly Listen
At Kurucuk & Associates, we understand how painful medical negligence can be — physically, emotionally, and financially.
We offer:
Compassionate, confidential consultations
English-speaking medical malpractice lawyers
Experience with doctors, private hospitals, and public institutions
Strong background in medical tourism malpractice cases
You don’t have to face this alone. Let us listen to your story and help you understand your options — honestly and clearly.
👉 Contact Kurucuk & Associates' medical malpractice experienced lawyers today. Your recovery and your rights matter.
