A new bill that already has passed the state House would limit frivolous medical malpractice lawsuits. Among other things, the bill would require attorneys to have an independent medical expert evaluate the merits of a case before filing suit, as well as providing two months notice before a lawsuit is filed. The bill is strongly supported by the Tennessee Medical Association, which said that it decided such a measure was necessary after it found that about 80 percent of malpractice suits end in no payouts. A similar version of the bill passed the Senate earlier. Now, the House bill has to go to the Senate to make sure the two are reconciled. Once that happens, supporters say they don't expect trouble getting the governor to sign.
To learn more about the pending legislation:
- read this piece from The Tennessean
Related Articles:
Lack of PA reform bill leads to higher med mal costs. Report
EMRs show promise in easing malpractice cost. Report
Senate bill could transform medical malpractice. Report
Experts endorse health court trials. Report