OHIO ISSUES INTERIM MED-MAL REPORT:

Ohio’s Medical Malpractice Commission has released its interim report to the governor and members of the General Assembly, recommending actions that could help stabilize medical malpractice rates in Ohio. Established under Senate Bill 281, the commission is required to deliver a report to the legislature in April 2005. The commission determined to issue an interim report before then to outline initial recommendations, such as passing House Bill 282, which authorizes the insurance director to create a Medical Liability Underwriting Association (MLUA) if the current medical malpractice market further deteriorates and legislation requiring the reporting of medical malpractice lawsuit data. The commission has held nine monthly meetings to date and one special session to finalize the interim report. The department initiated the MLUA legislation.