Last week, ODI released a survey that clearly showed that the rising cost of malpractice insurance has significantly impacted Ohio physicians. The Director of ODI, Ann Womer Benjamin, presented the survey results at the AMC/NOMA sponsored seminar on March 4th, 2004. Nearly 40 percent of the respondents to the ODI survey said that they have retired early or plan to retire in the next three years due to rising insurance expenses. Only 9 percent of the respondents were over the age of 64.
Northeastern Ohio data showed that more than 40 percent of the physicians responding from our area plan to leave in the next 3 years. 96% of the respondents had rate increases in 2004. In addition, the survey showed that 66% of the respondents have turned down or referred high-risk procedure patients and 75% order more tests to assist in defending their medical decisions.
This survey clearly shows what the AMC/NOMA and our members have already known for some time - in fact, we were the first organization to mobilize regarding the issue. The AMC/NOMA leadership believes that implementing mandatory arbitration or some form of alternative dispute resolution is needed in Ohio to assist Northeastern Ohio physicians with this ongoing crisis. To view a complete copy of the ODI report go to