Firing up tort reform debate; physicians push for proposals addressing antitrust, liability issues

Article Abstract:

Medical groups are preparing to discuss and debate antitrust and liability tort reform issues that may be addressed in Pres Clinton's upcoming healthcare reform plans. The American Medical Assn and the National Medical Liability Reform Coalition both seek national measures regarding caps on damages, stricter statutes of limitations, periodic payments and other legal issues. Law groups, however, believe that liability and antitrust limitations will result in unnecessary health care costs and increased practice of defensive medicine.

Laws, regulations and rules, Antitrust law, Limited liability

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Providers told to work with payers to ensure role in reform

Article Abstract:

Physicians and hospitals must cooperate with payers to share control over health care reform, said speakers at the Hospital Medical Staff Section of the American Medical Assn's Interim Meeting. For instance, the relative-value- scale payment system limits physicians' charges for 4,000 procedures. Also, analysis of mortality statistics after cardiac surgery exerts pressure on health providers to show high standards. Among other suggestions, Nancy Dickey recommended that health consumers keep well-informed to make wise choices.

Political activity

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AMA wants input in health reform plans

Article Abstract:

The American Medical Assn (AMA) has called for a plan that would give organized medicine input in national medical care reform. Some delegates at the AMA's Annual Meeting expressed concern that by backing healthcare reform the AMA might be viewed as supporting the unionizing of physicians, caps on health spending and rationing of medical care. The AMA is seeking regulatory involvement in payments and fees, quality and appropriateness of care and negotiation of medical reimbursements.

American Medical Association

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