Obama administration releases information on liability reform initiatives

18 September 2009

Yesterday, Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of health and human services, announced the details of President Obama's new medical liability demonstration project. The president referenced this program in his speech to the joint session of Congress last week.

The secretary said that the project will help states and health care systems test models that focus on patient safety, foster better communication, ensure fair compensation to patients with medical injuries, reduce frivilous lawsuits and reduce liability premiums.

Planning and implementation grants to states and health systems will be available. MSV will be following this and considering opportunities to apply for a demonstration project in Virginia. Grant funding will be released in early 2010 through an application process. Total funding for the initiative is $25 million.

HHS press release (PDF)
Fact sheet (PDF)