Profession

Tort system found bad for both sides

NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted April 23, 2007

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The medical liability tort system is failing doctors and patients, according to a study published in the March Journal of Empirical Legal Studies out of Cornell University Law School.

The analysis examined 42 closed claims filed over the past 20 years against neurologists covered by one medical liability insurer.

In 23 of the claims filed, or 55%, researchers found no evidence of substandard care. The study determined a neurologist committed harmful negligence in 19 cases, but in 68% of those, the patient received no payment.

The study concluded that inappropriate lawsuits and poor compensation to harmed patients are two shortcomings of the current system.

Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2007/04/23/prbf0423.htm.

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