A simple solution would be a national risk pool that would be paid in the form of premiums from any healthcare provider, no exceptions. Dentists, Medical Doctors, Physicians Assistants, Nurse practitioners, Chiropractors, Naturopathic, etc would be included in this pool. Hospitals, Clinics, would also pay into this pool.

Current malpractice policies would continue to be in place up to a capped $250,000. Only claims over $250,000 would be covered by NMIC. Claimants could choose to arbitrate their claims and settle, receiving most of the settlement on the spot, or continue to file suit and plan on long delays and potentially paying up to 40% to legal representation.

Under this program, normal malpractice premiums would drop from ½ to 1/3 of current premiums.

I realize the trial lawyers will object to anything that potentially takes away or reduces their potential settlements, but I think the time has come. The recent flap over IHC patients having to sign arbitration agreements before receiving treatments only illustrates my point.