Wisconsin Doctors Feel Exposed by Loss of Cap

Efforts currently are underway to have the cap reinstated.

Rep. John Gard (R-Peshtigo), speaker of the Wisconsin state assembly, recently formed a medical malpractice task force to examine the issue.

“This shortsighted ruling jeopardizes quality health care for every resident in the state, especially for folks in rural areas,” Rep. Gard said in a statement. “Wisconsin was a nationwide model for medical malpractice reform. That law made us a destination state for good doctors. We will work hard this fall to regain that title.”

The task force should come up with legislation in time for the fall session that would restore Wisconsin's reputation for quality health care, he said.

The key is to craft legislation that would pass the muster of the Supreme Court, Dr. Magiera said, adding that another option would be to push for a constitutional amendment that would allow reinstatement of the cap.

This Month's Talk Back Question

How do you view the role of state-imposed caps on noneconomic damages in malpractice cases?