Iowa Senate Bill SF2035

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

A bill for an act relating to statute of repose in medical malpractice claims.

Impact

The proposed changes in SF2035 could significantly impact how medical malpractice claims are processed and filed in Iowa. By introducing a clause that permits claims beyond the traditional six-year cap, the bill would theoretically increase the accountability of healthcare providers and potentially lead to more claims being brought to light, particularly in cases where there has been a failure to inform patients of critical health information. This could encourage greater transparency within healthcare practices and may lead to stricter oversight of medical professionals.

Summary

Senate File 2035 proposes amendments to the statute of repose concerning medical malpractice claims in Iowa. Under the current law, victims of medical malpractice are required to file their claims within two years of discovering the injury but not more than six years after the alleged act causing the injury. The bill intends to introduce a second exception to this six-year statute by allowing claims to be filed if the injury or death was concealed from the patient by medical professionals or facilities. This means that if a patient is not aware of the cause of their injury due to such concealment, they can pursue legal action beyond the six-year limit.

Contention

Notably, the bill has sparked debate regarding the balance between patient rights and the interests of healthcare providers. Supporters argue that it protects patients' rights to pursue justice when they've been harmed, particularly in cases where concealment could prevent timely legal action. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the implications of extending the time frame for filing claims, suggesting it may encourage frivolous lawsuits and create an overly burdensome legal environment for healthcare providers. This contention reflects a broader dialogue about healthcare accountability and patient safety in the legislative context.