I would like to commend the Herald for running a great guest editorial on the state of medical malpractice in the state of Washington (“Malpractice insurance rates” Sept. 24). In the article, Drs. Callaghan and Jeffers clearly point out the looming crisis in liability insurance premiums and the very clear possibility of mass exodus of physicians from this state.
I am sure that many people thought that once again it is those “rich doctors complaining.” I would suggest that instead, they should look at what either they or their employer are paying in insurance premiums every month and ask, “do I want these to continue to escalate?” When the Boeing workers threatened to strike, one of their complaints was the increasing cost of health care premiums. I can guarantee you that the money is not going into the pockets of their physician.
Drs. Callaghan and Jeffers, as well as the Washington State Medical Society and the American Medical Society, all promote HR 4600 (Health Act of 2002) as a good start in reducing the ballooning cost of medical malpractice premiums. The bill would continue to allow an injured patient to sue for true economic damages plus $250,000 for pain and suffering, and punitive damages of $250,000, or twice the economic damages, whichever is greater. The Congressional Budget Office predicts that the bill would lower malpractice premiums by 25-30 percent, leading to lower healthcare and health insurance costs. Isn’t that what we all want?
Apparently our representative, Rick Larsen, doesn’t. He voted against the bill (as did his partner to the south, Jay Inslee).
We need to all work together to control healthcare costs or none of us will be able afford it. I think Rep. Larsen needs to do some more homework and talk to the real experts before he blindly follows the lead (and money trail) of the trial lawyers next time.
Everett
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