![]() ![]() ![]() Tom Myers, the CEO of Physicians Insurance, the largest insurer of doctors in Washington State, told The Inlander earlier this year that he can't promise doctors' malpractice premiums will go down if tort reform is enacted. " only benefits the insurance companies," says Fannin. At the rally, doctors and hospital administrators listed numerous examples of multi-million dollar jury awards, but Fannin says doctors should take a closer look at the real issue. Fannin, a Spokane attorney who represents patients in malpractice lawsuits. "The increase in premiums seems to correlate with the drop in the economy because insurance companies make money off investments, not premiums," says Patrick K. But opponents say insurance companies aren't having problems only because of runaway juries. I may not be able to incorporate obstetrics." Tort reform advocates say when doctors can no longer afford insurance, patients suffer, especially those in rural areas who have limited access to care. "I may have to rethink the scope of my practice. "I won't be able to finish my training unless we obtain coverage to do obstetrical treatment," she says. "As of July 1, 2003, our malpractice insurance will lapse." Stamp is a resident with two years of training to go. Maria Stamp of Family Medicine, Spokane, above the roar of demonstrators at the rally. "I'm here to show my support for tort reform at both the state and national level," shouted Dr. Tort reform in Washington would limit a plaintiff's non-economic damages to $250,000. The increased malpractice costs, they say, are the result of high jury awards in malpractice lawsuits. Proponents of tort reform say Washington has a medical liability crisis, as skyrocketing malpractice insurance premiums are forcing doctors to limit or leave their practices, particularly in obstetrics and neurology. By Inlander Staff Rally For Reform - SPOKANE - For the first time in Spokane's history, hundreds of doctors, hospital administrators and patients gathered on May 29 at the Convention Center to rally for tort reform.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |