What is the difference between economic and non-economic damages in a medical malpractice case?

In Washington, economic damages and non-economic damages are two separate types of damages that can be awarded in a medical malpractice case. Economic damages compensate for actual financial losses related to the medical malpractice case. They can include medical expenses, lost wages, or the cost of any necessary future medical care. Non-economic damages include compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life due to the medical malpractice. These damages may also be awarded to compensate for physical disfigurement or impairment. Economic damages are based on clear financial losses that are documented and can be calculated in a straightforward manner. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are far more subjective and are often based on intangible factors such as the pain and suffering experienced by the plaintiff. Non-economic damages are difficult to calculate since they are based on intangible factors, and may be judged by a jury. While economic damages are generally easy to estimate, non-economic damages are more difficult to prove and quantify. As a result, non-economic damages tend to be more difficult to prove, but they are still available and may be awarded by a jury or court.

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What is the difference between economic and non-economic damages in a medical malpractice case?

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