Republicans Tout Tort, Insurance Reforms, but…Malpractice Issue Unlikely as Law, Dems Say
Gladstone Sun News, (MO)
March 25, 2004

Northland Democrats and Republicans disagree over whether the legislation will help doctors dealing with skyrocketing malpractice insurance costs.

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Doctors did not benefit by "tort reform" bills passed in other states, according to Americans for Insurance Reform, New York. Some results: After a 2003 Texas referendum promised rate cuts, rates jumped by up to 35 percent for doctors and 65 percent for hospitals; premiums rose up to 45 percent in Florida; and hikes of up to 83 percent followed Oklahoma's 2003 tort reform effort.

"Tort reform by itself will not reduce malpractice rates," Rep. Phil Willoughby, D-Kansas City-North, said.

Companion legislation, House bill 1305, would regulate malpractice insurance, according to Brown.

"Included in the House bill are measures requiring 60 days written notice if insurance rates are going to be increased or if renewal is going to be refused. Six months written notice must be given if the insurer plans to leave the market," according to Brown. "The legislation will also establish a rate range for the state by requiring insurers to report the actual rates they charge. After a year, all medical malpractice insurers would then be required to keep their rates within 20 percent of the state average."

For a copy of the complete article, contact AIR.