Wednesday, October 27th, 2004 — Voters have a "golden" opportunity to protect access to their own physicians by voting 'Yes' on specific ballot initiatives next week in Florida, Nevada, Oregon and Wyoming, according to AMA President John C. Nelson, MD, MPH, who issued the call to action at the start of a National House Call in Wyoming. The four states are among 20 experiencing a medical liability crisis.
"The current liability crisis severely threatens the availability of obstetricians, neurosurgeons, and other high risk specialists," said Dr. Nelson. "On November 2, we urge 'Yes' votes on behalf of America's patients and physicians. Every vote can make a difference."
In Florida, a 'Yes' vote on Ballot Measure 3 will amend the state constitution and limit the contingency fees attorneys receive in medical liability claims. Currently, a personal injury lawyer in Florida can receive as much as 40 percent of the money intended for patients.