March 14, 2002

Dear Constituent,

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts about Medical Malpractice insurance and its impact on Pennsylvania’s medical community. I agree that legislative action is needed to control the cost of malpractice insurance. I am therefore pleased to inform you that on March 13, the Senate unanimously approved legislation that will significantly lower malpractice insurance premiums. The bill was approved by the House of Representatives with just one dissenting vote and was awaiting the governor’s signature as this letter was written.

House Bill 1802 is the product of extensive negotiations between legislators, doctors, lawyers and the health care and insurance industries. The bill is a compromise, and like all compromises, is not perfect. I supported the bill because it will lower premiums, provide predictability in an insurance market that has been subject to wide price fluctuations and improve patient safety.

I have attached a fact sheet that provides an overview of House Bill 1802. If you would like more detailed information, or a copy of the bill, please contact one of my offices.

Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts on Medical Malpractice insurance. I am pleased that the General Assembly has acted to address your concerns.