Large medical malpractice costs and the lack of tort reform in Illinois is forcing two neurosurgeons to announce the closure of their practices, which could possibly leave a hospital and a portion of the state without a neurosurgeon.
Medical malpractice insurance was not a factor when one of the neurosurgeons was recruited to the area a few years ago, however, the sudden escalation of costs and the fear of being trapped have caused both surgeons to announce their intention to close up their practices. Medical liability premiums for one of the neurosurgeons started at $40,000, then it went to $45,000, then to $60,000 and now, $250,000. Tail coverage, he said, which typically runs about two and a half times the most recent year's premium, would run north of $500,000, he said, if the neurosurgeon decided to stay in practice in Illinois after his current policy expires at the end of May. On average a neurosurgeon is sued in Illinois once every nine months - compared with once every three years or more in less litigious states.
Without the neurosurgeons to staff the hospital in this area of the state of Illinois, emergency patients will be forced to use hospitals in Paducah, Ky., an hour south by road, or St. Louis, two hours to the northwest. The governor of Illinois is aware of the problem and preparing a reform package to address it. His aides would not give details, saying the proposed legislation is still being developed.