Relative to screening panels for medical injury claims.
Impact
The repeal of the screening panel laws associated with medical injury claims could lead to a more straightforward legal landscape for medical malpractice litigation in New Hampshire. By eliminating this preliminary step, the bill could potentially facilitate quicker resolutions and provide quicker access to litigation for claimants. However, it also raises questions about the implications for both claimants and healthcare providers in terms of litigation costs and the burden on the judicial system, which could see an increase in medical injury cases being brought directly to court.
Summary
Senate Bill 65 aims to repeal the existing law, RSA 519-B, which governed screening panels for medical injury claims in New Hampshire. This law provided a means for early evaluation of medical injury claims, allowing disputes to be resolved before reaching the courts. The repeal signifies a significant shift in how medical injury claims might be handled in the state, moving away from a structured panel system towards more direct judicial proceedings. Proponents argue that this change will streamline the process for claimants, reducing delays associated with panel evaluations.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding SB 65 includes the concerns raised by those in the healthcare community, who argue that the screening panels served as an important safeguard, helping to weed out frivolous claims before litigation. Critics of the repeal fear that without this initial screening process, more baseless claims could reach the courts, potentially overwhelming the judicial system and leading to higher insurance costs for healthcare providers. Supporters of the bill contend that the existing system was ineffective and that direct access to courts is a more just response for legitimate claims.
(New Title) relative to the membership and duties of the trauma medical review committee and establishing a study committee to review the membership and duties of other boards and an appointment related to emergency medical services.
relative to improving screening for and treatment of blood clots, or venous thromboembolism, and establishing a statewide venous thromboembolism registry.