The effects of tort reform on medical malpractice insurance markets: an empirical analysis

J Health Polit Policy Law. 1992 Spring;17(1):143-61. doi: 10.1215/03616878-17-1-143.

Abstract

I use statewide loss ratio data to assess empirically the manner in which tort reforms have affected relative prices and profitability, and underwriting risk in the medical malpractice insurance industry. The empirical evidence suggests that the imposition of statutory ceilings on recoveries both decreased risk and improved relative profitability. Reforms that codified the required standard of care appeared to have a beneficial effect on relative profitability in certain cases.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Insurance Claim Reporting / economics
  • Insurance Claim Reporting / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Insurance, Liability / economics
  • Insurance, Liability / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Malpractice / economics
  • Malpractice / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Time Factors
  • United States