Reportage of health reform incomplete

The media's coverage of health reform often leaves out important issues. Here is copy of letter I sent to Chicago Tribune


April 26, 2009
Chicago Tribune

In the April 2 article “Health Facts and Fibs” no mention was made about another issue that significantly impacts health care reform.

Meaningful reform requires reform of the malpractice system. It is commonly known but not sufficiently discussed publicly that doctors, terrified of being hit with practice suits frequently order unnecessary tests and consultations that raise the cost of care immeasurably. Some estimate the added costs amount to as much as $120 billion or more .

Clearly, better methods of addressing medical liability are possible. One is placing a reasonable limit on no -physical complaints. Others include a workmen’s compensation type of insurance that, while it fairly compensates patients, minimizes the costs of litigation and minimizes the adversarial indignities that jury trials force both patients and doctors to undergo.

Ed Volpintesta MD