Florida orthopedic surgeons react to liability concerns. Lower insurance coverage, protect assets, avoid trauma

Area of Science:

• Medical Law
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Healthcare Economics

Background:

• Medical malpractice litigation poses a significant challenge to practicing physicians.
• Rising insurance premiums and lawsuit frequency impact healthcare delivery and physician practice patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effects of professional liability on orthopedic surgeons in Florida.
• To understand changes in practice style and insurance coverage in response to litigation risks.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to Florida orthopedic surgeons in active private practice.
• Data collected included lawsuit history, insurance coverage, practice modifications, and asset protection strategies.

Main Results:

• The average number of malpractice suits per surgeon increased from 1.3 to 1.9 over two years.
• 29% of respondents were uninsured due to dropping coverage, with 50% reporting $250,000 or less in coverage.
• 70% reported practice style changes, including avoiding trauma patients and ordering more tests.

Conclusions:

• Orthopedic surgeons are experiencing increased litigation and are reducing professional liability coverage.
• Practice modifications are being implemented to mitigate risks, potentially affecting patient access to care.
• Asset protection measures are increasingly common among surgeons facing liability concerns.