ODI report: Medical-malpractice claims hit new low

New data released this week by the Ohio Department of Insurance shows that fewer medical malpractice suits were filed in Ohio in 2012 than in any year since the state began tracking in 2005 (Source: “Medical-malpractice claims fall to record low in Ohio,” Columbus Dispatch, May 2, 2014).

According ODI's annual Ohio Medical Professional Liability Closed Claim Report, 2,733 claims were closed in 2012. A total of $177.3 million was paid to 576 claimants, an average of $307,852 apiece.

The report shows a steady decline in claims against surgeons, general-practice physicians and other medical personnel since the state adopted tort-reform laws in 2003.  Nearly 4 in 5 claims resulted in no malpractice payment, although in almost all cases money was awarded for investigation and defense costs, averaging $29,691 apiece, the report showed.