ODI data: Malpractice cases declining in Ohio

According to new data from the Ohio Department of Insurance, over the past five years the number of closed malpractice claims has dropped 41 percent and average payments decreased by 38 percent (Source: “Lawsuits against doctors decline,” Columbus Dispatch, April 16, 2012).

The ODI report also found that more than three out of four closed claims result in no payment.

For supporters of Ohio’s 2003 tort reform legislation, the new data shows that the law has been a success. 

“It’s not only good news and a good trend, but it is proof that tort reform accomplished what it set out to do — slow the growth of what we thought were runaway lawsuits and to stabilize the market for physicians,” said Tim Maglione of the Ohio State Medical Association.

However, critics of law say it has had a negative impact on the state. 

“We have turned away people with legitimate malpractice claims,” Columbus attorney Gerry Leeseberg said. “No matter how outrageous and catastrophic their injuries, the payment is capped. It’s justice delayed and justice reduced.”