United States House of Representatives Approves Medical Malpractice Bill

On Thursday, July 28, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill that would cap noneconomic damages at $250,000 in medical malpractice cases.

The bill is the third version to have passed the house in the past three years, with the previous two dying in the Senate. Republican leaders are hoping that their party majority in the Senate will allow the bill passage to the President Bush's desk.

"NAMIC is pleased that the House of Representatives approved this important piece of legislation," said NAMIC Federal Affairs Director Marliss Browder. "The cost of medical malpractice insurance has skyrocketed in the past few years due to the increase in lawsuits being filed.

"These rate increases have brought about a growing number of malpractice lawsuits, rising defense costs, and a reduced supply of coverage," added Browder.

"Across the country, patients are being denied access to quality, affordable healthcare because physicians are relocating or closing their practices," concluded Browder.

In addition to capping noneconomic damages, the bill also reduces punitive damages to no greater than twice what the patient receives for economic damanges, which are not capped.

For additional coverage, visit:

House approves bill to cap part of malpractice payouts (The Washington Times, July 28)

Source: The Washington Times, NAMIC

Posted: Friday, July 29, 2005 12:00:00 AM. Modified: Friday, July 29, 2005 9:50:35 AM.

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