September 5, 2007

Letters to the Editor
Chicago Tribune

To the Editor:

Thanks to the passage of Illinois’ medical liability reforms in 2005, Illinois is a leader in the movement asking doctors to speak more openly with their patients. 

In addition to curbing out-of-control lawsuits, the medical lawsuit reforms contain a medical community-sponsored “I’m sorry” provision that encourages doctors to empathize with their patients after a bad medical outcome – without fear that their words of comfort be later used against them in court.

Yet trial attorneys are trying to overturn these reforms including the “I’m sorry” provision due to its “arbitrary” nature.  How is encouraging doctor and patient communication ‘arbitrary’?  Open communication is good for the patient and it’s good for Illinois.  I’m glad the Chicago Tribune recognizes this fact.

Sincerely,

Rodney C. Osborn, M.D.
President
Illinois State Medical Society 

Twenty North Michigan Avenue, Suite 700 Chicago, Illinois 60602 Web site: www.isms.org
Telephone: 312-782-1654 Toll Free: 800-782-ISMS Fax: 312-782-2028