The Orlando VA Medical Center, located in Lake Nona's Medical City, serves as a crucial healthcare facility for veterans throughout Central Florida. This state-of-the-art medical center provides comprehensive care including emergency services, specialized treatments, and advanced surgical procedures to thousands of veterans annually.
Despite high care standards, medical errors and negligence at the facility can cause serious harm to our veterans. When medical malpractice happens at the Orlando VA Medical Center, veterans must pursue justice through the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), which provides specific procedures for claims against federal healthcare facilities.
Our firm's founder, a licensed physician and attorney, brings unique medical and legal expertise to VA medical malpractice cases. Our MD/JD thoroughly evaluates your case's medical aspects while navigating the complex FTCA claims process. With over $145 million recovered for clients and 25+ years of experience handling VA medical malpractice cases nationwide, we understand what it takes to succeed in claims against the Orlando VA Medical Center.
About Orlando VA Medical Center
The Orlando VA Medical Center opened in 2015 as part of Lake Nona's Medical City, representing a $665 million investment in veterans' healthcare. The facility spans an impressive 1.2 million square feet and features some of the most advanced medical technology available in the VA system.
The medical center offers emergency care, cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, mental health services, and specialized women's health programs. As a teaching facility affiliated with UCF's College of Medicine, it trains future healthcare providers through medical residency programs.
Under the leadership of Director Timothy J. Cooke and Chief of Staff Dr. Rania Abdulla, the facility plays a vital role in Florida's VA healthcare network. Its strategic location in Orlando makes it accessible to veterans throughout Central Florida, offering both primary care and specialized medical services essential to veteran health.
Common Types of Malpractice at Orlando VA Medical Center
Surgical Errors: Due to the facility's extensive surgical services, errors can occur during routine and complex procedures. Common issues include wrong-site surgery, post-operative complications, and anesthesia errors. Learn more about surgical malpractice claims →
Emergency Department Mistakes: The 24/7 emergency department handles critical cases; delayed treatment or misdiagnosis can have devastating consequences. Veterans may experience harmful delays in care or incorrect emergency interventions. Learn more about ER malpractice →
Diagnostic Errors: Improper or delayed diagnoses can worsen health outcomes. This is particularly critical in the facility's specialty departments like cardiology and gastroenterology. Learn more about misdiagnosis claims →
**Medication Errors **Florida birth injury claims →****: Mistakes in prescription, dosing, or administration of medications can cause serious harm. These errors can occur in any department but are particularly concerning in critical care settings.
Filing an FTCA Claim Against Orlando VA Medical Center
Under the Federal Tort Claims Act (28 U.S.C. § 2675), veterans must first file an administrative claim before pursuing legal action against the Orlando VA Medical Center. This initial claim must be filed using Standard Form 95 (SF-95) with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
For claims involving the Orlando VA Medical Center, the SF-95 should be submitted to:
Office of General Counsel (023) 810 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20420
The FTCA imposes strict deadlines that must be followed. Veterans have two years from the date they discovered (or should have discovered) their injury to file an administrative claim. Once the claim is filed, the VA has six months to review and respond. If the claim is denied or the review period expires without a decision, veterans have six months to file a federal lawsuit.
For complete step-by-step instructions, see our comprehensive guide: How to File a VA Medical Malpractice Claim in Florida →
Florida Legal Considerations for Orlando VA Medical Center Claims
While Florida's medical malpractice statute of limitations (Florida Statutes § 95.11) typically allows two years to file claims, FTCA claims follow federal timelines exclusively. However, Florida's medical standard of care principles may still apply when determining whether malpractice occurred at the Orlando VA Medical Center.
It's important to note that while Florida has certain damage caps for medical malpractice cases, these state-level restrictions don't apply to FTCA claims. Federal law governs compensation in VA medical malpractice cases. Learn more about Florida VA malpractice law →
How do I file a malpractice claim against Orlando VA Medical Center?
You must first file an administrative claim using Standard Form 95 with the VA Office of General Counsel. This must be done within two years of discovering your injury. Our doctor-attorney team can help prepare and file this crucial initial claim.
What is the deadline for filing a claim against Orlando VA Medical Center?
The FTCA requires filing an administrative claim within two years of discovering your injury. After the VA denies your claim or six months pass without a decision, you have six months to file a federal lawsuit.
Can I sue Orlando VA Medical Center directly?
No, you cannot sue the facility or its employees directly. The FTCA requires filing an administrative claim first, and any subsequent lawsuit must be filed against the United States government, not the medical center itself.
What damages can I recover for malpractice at Orlando VA Medical Center?
Under the FTCA, you can recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injury. Unlike Florida state cases, FTCA claims aren't subject to state damage caps.
Do I need a Florida attorney for my Orlando VA Medical Center claim?
While not legally required, having an attorney experienced in both FTCA claims and VA medical malpractice is crucial. Our firm's unique combination of medical and legal expertise allows us to handle claims nationwide, including at the Orlando VA Medical Center.
What types of medical errors are most common at Orlando VA Medical Center?
Based on our experience, common errors include surgical complications, medication mistakes, diagnostic delays, and emergency department errors. The complexity of care provided at this large facility can contribute to various types of medical negligence.
Other VA & Military Facilities in Florida
We also handle medical malpractice cases at these Florida facilities:
Understanding Your FTCA Rights
If you've experienced medical negligence at the Orlando VA Medical Center, you need to understand your rights under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). This law allows veterans and their families to seek compensation when harmed by negligent medical care at VA facilities, but the process has strict deadlines and requirements you must follow.
You have two years from the date of injury to file an administrative claim using Standard Form 95 (SF-95). This deadline is crucial - missing it means losing your right to pursue compensation. Once you submit your claim to the VA, they have six months to investigate and respond. If they deny your claim or fail to respond within six months, you then have six months to file a federal lawsuit.
When dealing with VA medical malpractice claims in Orlando, having an attorney who is also a medical doctor can significantly strengthen your case. These specialized professionals understand both the legal complexities of FTCA claims and the medical standards of care that should have been provided. They can accurately identify where care fell short and effectively communicate these failures to the court, which is essential for proving negligence occurred at the Orlando VA Medical Center.
Through an FTCA claim, you may be able to recover various damages, including past and future medical expenses, lost wages and earning capacity, and compensation for pain and suffering. If you're a veteran who has been disabled due to negligent care, you may also seek damages for loss of quality of life and the cost of ongoing care needs. For surviving family members, wrongful death claims can include funeral expenses and loss of financial support.
Don't wait to explore your legal options if you suspect you've received substandard care at the Orlando VA Medical Center. Many experienced medical-legal professionals offer free initial consultations to evaluate your case and explain your rights. During this consultation, they can review your medical records, assess the strength of your claim, and help you understand the next steps in the process. Remember, protecting your rights starts with understanding them - reach out today to learn if you have a valid FTCA claim against the Orlando VA Medical Center.
Related Case Types in Florida
We handle various types of VA and military medical malpractice cases in Florida:
Why Choose the Archuleta Law Firm
Unparalleled expertise for your Orlando VA Medical Center claim
- 🩺Doctor-Attorney on Staff
Our founder is both a licensed attorney and a medical doctor (MD/JD), providing critical insight into what constitutes malpractice at Orlando VA Medical Center.
- ⚖️Exclusive FTCA Focus
We specialize exclusively in military and VA medical malpractice, handling Federal Tort Claims Act cases against facilities like Orlando VA Medical Center across all 50 states.
- 💰Proven Track Record
With over $145 million recovered for military and VA medical malpractice victims nationwide, we have the experience to handle your case.
- 📅25+ Years of Experience
Our firm brings decades of experience to every case, understanding the nuances of federal litigation and the specific challenges of suing federal facilities.
- 🤝No Fee Unless We Win
We operate on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Free Case Evaluation
Orlando VA Medical Center Malpractice Claim
If you or a loved one suffered harm due to medical negligence at Orlando VA Medical Center in Orlando, Florida, you may have a right to seek compensation under the Federal Tort Claims Act.
The Archuleta Law Firm offers a free, confidential case evaluation to help you understand your legal options:
- Review your Orlando VA Medical Center medical records at no cost
- Explain how the FTCA process applies to claims against Orlando VA Medical Center
- Assess the potential value of your case
- Answer all your questions without obligation
Don't Delay
Strict federal deadlines apply to claims against Orlando VA Medical Center.