Statement by
Craig A Backs, M.D.
President, Illinois State Medical Society
Re: Introduction of H. B. 4074/Senate Amendment 3 to S.B. 276
May 5, 2005
Chicago, IL – The Illinois State Medical Society is pleased to see state legislative leaders and lawmakers in both the Illinois House and Senate take a positive step forward in posing solutions to our state’s medical litigation crisis.
ISMS is thoroughly reviewing these 80-plus page proposals, and until completion of our analysis, will not take a formal position on either. Both HB 4074 and Senate Amendment 3 to SB 276 appear to incorporate a cap on non-economic damage awards. This is highly positive. However, other portions of the language raise serious potential concerns, such as onerous insurance regulation that may chase insurers from the state, and physician malpractice profiles on the Internet. Further, it remains unclear how this legislation will fare in House/Senate floor debates, in the face of challenge from multiple, hostile amendments.
We look forward to working with the General Assembly to achieve real, meaningful litigation reform that will be signed by the governor and affirmed by the state Supreme Court.
Dr. Backs is a specialist in internal medicine practicing in Springfield, IL.
ISMS is a professional membership association representing over 14,000 physicians
practicing in all specialties statewide.
Twenty North Michigan Avenue, Suite 700 Chicago, Illinois 60602 Telephone: 312-782-1654 Toll Free: 800-782-ISMS Fax: 312-782-2028