WASHINGTON - Congressman Adam H. Putnam (FL-12), a member of the Rules and Budget Committees, today voted in support of H.R. 5, the Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-Cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act, which improves patient access to health care services and provides improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system.

“Common sense reforms are needed to safeguard both patients and doctors from the exploding costs of medical malpractice rates in Florida and around the country,” said Putnam. “The HEALTH Act will provide a much-needed, common sense step toward reforming America’s medical justice crisis.”

“Frivolous lawsuits and skyrocketing insurance rates are forcing doctors out of medical care and limiting their services, as well as Floridian’s access to health care,” said Putnam.

“All across Florida, patients are being denied access to care because our broken legal system is driving doctors out of business. Because of out-of-control malpractice costs, hospitals, such as Lake Wales Medical Centers and Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center, are having a difficult time recruiting and retaining surgeons and OB/GYNs,” said Putnam. “This legislation will put patients first by safeguarding their access to care.”

In Florida, obstetricians, gynecologists, and surgeons routinely pay more than $100,000 per year for $1 million coverage. Some are paying more than $200,000. A physician facing these premiums is likely to practice defensive medicine, ordering extra tests and using procedures that limit risk.

“The fact is frivolous lawsuits have never healed anyone. Medical liability costs are forcing Florida physicians to resign from hospital medical staffs, take a leave of absence and/or refuse to take emergency room on-call coverage,” Putnam concluded. “A true medical liability system requires accountability and fairness, and H.R. 5 will provide both for Floridians.”

H.R. 5, the Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-Cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act, passed the House by a vote of 230 to 194, and now moves to the Senate for consideration.