At the urging of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association, Representative Christine Scanlan and Senator Betty Boyd have now introduced House Bill 1344.

This Bill will adjusts the cap on non-economic damages to account for inflation since 1988.  The cap on non-economic damages is currently at $300,000.

This bill is bad for patients.  It's especially bad for the most vulnerable patients - who rely on Medicaid and Medicare - and at the most vulnerable times ( especially since I do OB/GYN ) during childbirth  and emergencies.  This bill will also seriously harm access to care and drive health costs even higher.

The cap increase in this bill would raise average malpractice premiums up around 11%.. So Physician are looking at potentially double-digit increases in  malpractice premiums.  And, when malpractice insurance costs go up, Medicaid, Medicare, and rural patients lose access to care.  Obstetrician (especially those in rural areas), and family practice doctors will stop seeing or treating these patients. Some rural physicians will just close up shop entirely because they can't afford the additional cost of coverage.

Our state and the legislators are facing serious money issues, job losses, and the worst recession in a long time.  So, why would a bill of this nature be introduce by greedy trail lawyers at a time of recession and at a time of serious health care reform.

When will trail lawyers learn that it is not about them and they are not working in the best interest of their clients.  If so maybe they can reduce their percentage of a settlement and give the patient more.