* A decade ago, Philadelphia had 19 hospitals that delivered babies. Today, only eight obstetric facilities remain, in part because of the relentless rise of malpractice premiums.
Unwanted patient outcomes are spurring high-payout lawsuits that ultimately damage health care delivery to millions.
A Chicago jury rendered a $22-million verdict against a hospital and a doctor when a woman died in childbirth because her high blood pressure led to a fatal hemorrhage. The money awarded her loved ones for loss of companionship could have been used to improve child-birthing resources for countless local mothers-to-be, or for other health care needs.
Amid the varying dynamics affecting patient care, liability is a common thread. Fortunately, some states are reducing their health care bills by capping court awards against doctors and hospitals.
California - often a national trendsetter - started the reform movement in 1975 when Marcus Welby, MD was still airing on TV. California’s medical malpractice premiums dropped dramatically and its doctor shortage disappeared shortly afterward.
Texas' 2003 damage cap law is heralded for causing about 3,000 doctors to seek licenses to practice in the Lone Star State in 2007 alone.
With America's health care increases far outpacing the cost of living index, West Virginia and other judicial hellhole states should wake up and take a cue from California and Texas.
The health of their residents may depend upon it.
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