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Washington Times
It's called "Sorry Works." Illinois state legislators are considering a mannerly panacea to the medical malpractice mess.
When doctors and hospitals err, they should just say "I'm sorry" and offer prompt patient compensation. In theory, patients are less likely to sue for malpractice, which in turn could rein in skyrocketing malpractice-insurance costs.
Bills pending in the Illinois House and Senate would establish a "Sorry" pilot program at two hospitals. The legislation, which passed the Senate last year, would offer hospitals a risk-free incentive. If the program increases a hospital's malpractice costs, the state makes up the difference.
But if it reduces the costs, the hospital pockets the savings.
Doctors and trial lawyers, who agree on little else, support "Sorry," the Chicago Sun Times reported yesterday.
"It's an attempt to think outside the box," noted Keith Hebeisen, president of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association.
Contact Jennifer Harper at jharper@washingtontimes.com or 202/636-3085.
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