<p>There have been studies showing that claims are generally down or have leveled off, along with the amount of the claims. The premiums have continued to rise even when claims do not. One well known study done at Harvard analyzed malpractice claims in particular and found that a very small number of frivolous claims were filed. Instead, when they analyzed legitimate bad results at hospitals that were likely the result negligence, they found that most of the injured patients never filed claims. Here is a synopsis of the study. It is from 2006 but I have read that similar studies have been done since. I’m not finding those as easily. </p>
<p>[Study</a> Casts Doubt on Claims That the Medical Malpractice System Is Plagued By Frivolous Lawsuits - May 10, 2006 -2006 Releases - Press Releases - Harvard School of Public Health](<a href=“http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/press-releases/2006-releases/press05102006.html]Study”>http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/press-releases/2006-releases/press05102006.html)</p>
<p>It defies common sense that many frivolous malpractice claims will be filed. I used to be a med mal defense lawyer and every good defense lawyer knows how to shut down a frivolous suit. We did not pay off frivolous suits - the insurance wouldn’t do it and the doctors wouldn’t support it. Of course, the doctors say there are more frivolous claims than there are. Defense costs are huge because lawyers try to wait the plaintiffs out. You’d be shocked at what it costs to just get copies of all the medical records in order to review a case. The plaintiff has to hire an expert - very expensive - and in some areas, there aren’t many doctors willing to testify against their fellow doctors. </p>
<p>Years ago, anesthesiologists got tired of being sued and even more tired of causing a large number of injuries and deaths. They changed their practice standards and it had a huge impact on patient care. They decided to do a better job. Imagine that…</p>
<p>[Anesthesia</a> Patient Safety Foundation - About APSF - Foundation History](<a href=“http://www.apsf.org/about_history.php]Anesthesia”>http://www.apsf.org/about_history.php)</p>