Connecticut House Bill HB05205

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/15
• Refer: 1/9/15

Caption

An Act Establishing Peer Review Panels In Medical Malpractice Actions.

Impact

The implementation of HB 05205 is likely to significantly influence how negligence claims against healthcare providers are handled in the legal system. By introducing a peer review process, it would potentially reduce the number of frivolous lawsuits and encourage the earlier resolution of legitimate claims. Supporters of the bill argue that this could lead to a more efficient legal process and ultimately benefit patients, as it may expedite the resolution of valid claims. However, opponents may raise concerns that it could create barriers for patients seeking legal recourse, particularly if their claims are dismissed at the peer review stage.

Summary

House Bill 05205 aims to establish a peer review process within the context of medical malpractice by amending sections of the general statutes. Specifically, it proposes that peer review panels, consisting of physicians, medical professionals, and laypersons, examine claims of alleged negligence made against healthcare providers. The purpose of this review is to ascertain whether there is probable cause for these claims to proceed before they are forwarded to mandatory mediation. This bill seeks to create a structured mechanism that could potentially filter out claims deemed to lack merit, thereby streamlining the subsequent legal processes.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 05205 is expected, reflecting the complexities inherent in adjusting the legal framework for medical malpractice. Proponents assert that the peer review process will promote accountability among healthcare providers and enhance the quality of care by allowing legitimate grievances to be addressed. Conversely, critics may argue that such a system could favor healthcare providers and complicate the pursuit of justice for patients who believe they have been harmed. The bill aims to balance the need for legal protections for practitioners with the rights of patients seeking redress for negligence.