However, as with the US research, many claims in Australia do not result in payments to plaintiffs. This fact often comes as a surprise to medical practitioners as it is not well publicised.
It is not a simple matter for a plaintiff to succeed in a claim for compensation based in medical negligence. And it certainly is an expensive exercise especially when there can be no guarantee of success.
For doctors involved in a claim that is successfully defended there is usually no direct financial cost.
Ms Cheryl McDonald is claims department manager with MIGA (Medical Insurance Group Australia).
It is not a simple matter for a plaintiff to succeed in a claim for compensation based in medical negligence. And it certainly is an expensive exercise especially when there can be no guarantee of success.
For doctors involved in a claim that is successfully defended there is usually no direct financial cost.
Ms Cheryl McDonald is claims department manager with MIGA (Medical Insurance Group Australia).
MJA InSight, Issue 38 - 10 Oct, 2011
