The bill would restrict the types of expert witnesses that can be used in a medical malpractice suit, removing a provision that allowed medical experts in similar specialties. Instead, the bill would limit testimony to someone in the same field as the physician who is being sued.
The legislation would also allow attorneys defending physicians to ask subsequent healthcare providers about a patient, according to the report. This provision is intended to help attorneys decide whether a pending lawsuit could be settled or was frivolous, according to the report.
One of the bill’s sponsors said the legislation is designed to make Florida a “magnet” for healthcare professionals, according to the report.
Florida was fifth in the country in 2011 for most medical malpractice payouts.
More Articles on Medical Malpractice:
Study: Diagnostic Errors Represent Most Common, Costly Malpractice Claims
Study: Malpractice Claims Go Unresolved for 4 Years of Average Physician’s Career
Top 10 Reasons Physicians Practice Defensive Medicine
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
