J Am Coll Surg. 2013 Nov 6. pii: S1072-7515(13)01075-2. doi: 10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2013.09.007. [Epub ahead of print]

Impact of Medical Malpractice Environment on Surgical Quality and Outcomes.

Minami CA, Chung JW, Holl JL, Bilimoria KY.

Source

Surgical Outcomes and Quality Improvement Center, Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University and Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL.

"The existing body of data on the effect of malpractice environs on surgical outcomes and quality of care is small, equivocal, and has notable temporal and geographic limitations. Though there is evidence that medical malpractice liability influences physicians' clinical choices, there is little to support the theory that the threat of medical litigation improves physician adherence to quality care indicators or improves patient outcomes. To facilitate a productive discussion on the malpractice system and tort reform, we need to better understand whether the liability system in the US actually serves its intended purpose of being a deterrent to negligent care and improving safety and quality. A comprehensive evaluation of the effect of malpractice environment on quality of care is needed."