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New data show the highest prevalence of medical liability premium increases in 15 years
Using data from the Annual Rate Survey Issues of the Medical Liability Monitor (MLM), a newly updated report summarizes (PDF) changes in medical liability premiums from 2011 to 2020. The most significant finding is that in 2020, 31.1% of the premiums reported to the MLM increased from the previous year. More premiums increased in 2020 than in any year since 2005. This appears to be the beginning of an upward trend in increases in premiums—a trend not seen in over 20 years. The findings indicate the early stages of a hard market. Read more.
Together with state medical societies, the AMA is pursuing both traditional and innovative medical liability reforms to preserve premium stability and meet the needs of millions of Americans who need affordable, accessible medical care. This includes limited and targeted emergency protections for physicians who continue to treat patients during the pandemic without adequate resources and support. Find more information (PDF) on AMA solutions to reshape the current medical liability system to better serve both physicians and patients.
New podcast: “Surviving COVID: How Physicians are Providing Vital Care and Keeping Practices Open”
Patients often form strong and long-lasting bonds with their care providers and COVID-19 has drastically altered that ever-important doctor-patient relationship. Visits have moved online and fear of the virus has some patients skipping care altogether. This raises three concerning questions for physicians: how are patients with chronic diseases managing their treatment without regular in-person care; are patients putting their lives at risk unnecessarily by delaying care and screenings; and how will their practices survive through the pandemic so they can continue caring for their communities?
Listen to a new podcast where AMA President Susan R. Bailey, MD, joins the Federation of American Hospital’s Chip Khan to discuss how private physician practices have been handling COVID while caring for their patients—and how Congress is helping.
