ABSTRACT Aim: Errors that occur occasionally in medical practices can sometimes lead to irreversible consequences. While there is an inherent level of risk and a margin for error in healthcare, these should be minimized as much as possible. Sometimes, news about the implications of medical errors on social media, along with situations that individuals have either experienced or observed, can make people anxious about these mistakes. In this study, patients were surveyed about medical malpractice, and their responses were analyzed. Methods: Quantitative research was conducted using online and face-to-face survey techniques and the data was obtained from people who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study. The population of the study is individuals over the age of 18 who have received health services in Turkey. The research sample consists of 400 participants and the questionnaire form used in the study consists of three parts. The first part includes demographic data and statements about medical malpractice; in the second and third parts, the questionnaire forms consisting of eight judgment statements to determine the approach towards medical error and reasons for medical error, composed of eight judgment statements, which the researcher finalized by using the scale developed by Bilgin and Others (2019) and the statements used by Er and Cezlan (2022) in their research and taking the opinions of experts, was used. Frequency and percentage analysis techniques and chi-square tests were used in the analysis. Results: Most of the 400 participants were male. The education levels were primarily associate degrees and bachelor's degrees. Nearly two-thirds of the participants reported that they are familiar with medical malpractice. However, the majority believe they have not personally experienced medical malpractice. Conclusion: The study revealed that most patients reported understanding a medical error but often confused it with complication. Participants believe that most medical errors can be prevented. Given the study's results, organizing public service announcements and training sessions is essential to increase awareness of medical errors and complications.