Michigan "I'm Sorry" Law Passed
Side Note: Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has signed into law an “I’m Sorry” law for Michigan physicians. The law allows physicians to express sympathy related to suffering, pain or death and not have it used again them as evidence in a medical malpractice lawsuit. However, the law would “not apply to a statement of negligence or culpable conduct” that is made along with a sympathetic statement. So, Michigan physicians still need to be somewhat careful with what they say to patients.
We here at MyMedicalMalpracticeInsurance.com are happy to see the state of Michigan join the growing list of states with “I’m Sorry” laws. As we have discussed previously, open, honest and frequent communication with patients not only fosters a better doctor-patient relationship, but it also increases patient satisfaction and reduces a physician’s likelihood of facing a med mal lawsuit. Being able to carry on a thoughtful conversation expressing sympathy in light of less than desirable outcomes can often mean the difference between being sued for med mal and having to use your Michigan med mal policy and not being sued for med mal –weather actual malpractice has occurred or not. (As we all know, a physician does not have to actually commit malpractice to be charged with it.)
Are you a Michigan physician who would like to lower your Michigan med mal insurance rates? If so, complete our quote request form today.
Governor Signs Bill Preventing Malpractice Suits
Posted: Apr 19, 2011 10:37 AM CDT
From wlns.com
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has signed legislation aimed at providing some legal protection to medical providers who express sympathy or compassion to patients or their families. The Republican governor approved a bill that says a statement conveying sympathy related to pain, suffering or death can’t be used as evidence of admitting liability in a medical malpractice suit.
