Medical malpractice reform in Oregon?

Posted on July 30, 2012 in Our Blog,Patient Care

Oregon governor John Kitzhaber, in cooperation with representatives of the Oregon Medical Association and the Oregon Trial Lawyers Association, has presented a proposal to improve patient safety, reduce medical-related lawsuits, and reduce the state’s health care costs. To accomplish these goals earlier disclosure of injuries would be required, followed by an apology, when applicable, and a compensation offer within 90 days. If agreement cannot be reached, mediation would follow, and if mediation is unsuccessful, the parties could then move to a lawsuit.

The proposal goes to the newly formed Patient Safety and Defensive Medicine Workgroup, which is comprised of a medical doctor, a trial lawyer, and lawmakers. The workgroup will hold public meetings and revise the proposal.

For more on this story, see this article.