Enterprise liability model may not stand political heat

Article Abstract:

A plan to exempt physicians from liability in malpractice cases is losing support from managed health organizations and others. The plan would shift liability to the hospital or other institution for which the physician worked. In exchange, physicians would sacrifice some professional autonomy. However, health organizations neither want to become plaintiffs in malpractice suits nor overly involve themselves in physicians' practices. In addition, some critics argue that the plan would continue the practice of defensive medicine and deprive plaintiffs of physician accountability for their actions.

Author: McCormick, Brian
Planning, Tort reform, Malpractice

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Clinton expected to intensify antitrust enforcement

Article Abstract:

Pres Clinton plans to enforce antitrust laws in the health care industry, and experts expect the Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission to focus on areas such as hospital mergers, price-fixing, provider diversifications and physician self-referrals. While some health care providers had argued that relaxing antitrust regulations would allow health care organizations to collaborate more effectively, Federal Trade Commission officials have stated that antitrust laws are crucial to maintaining quality and keeping down costs.

Author: McCormick, Brian
Forecasts and trends, Clinton, Bill, Antitrust law

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Alternate dispute resolution key to Bush reform plan

Article Abstract:

President Bush's health care reforms contain different strategies for decreasing medical malpractice costs. Currently, it has been estimate that liability costs run about $5 billion in direct costs and $15 million for defensive measure costs. Bush's plan increases incentives to mediate malpractice suits which would reduce costs. While most states already have arbitration procedures on their books, most are not used due to unfamiliarity with the law.

Author: McCormick, Brian
Medical care, Health insurance, Bush, George H.W.

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Subjects list: Laws, regulations and rules, Health care industry, Social policy
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