Compensation for adverse consequences of medical intervention. Summary of a report of the Royal College of Physicians.
A limited no-fault scheme along the lines in the report would be a means by which reasonable levels of compensation could be provided promptly to the victims of medical intervention at relatively low administrative cost and with relative accessibility for those involved. However, the scheme would need to be carefully costed before implementation. This means that detailed consideration be given to the likely effects on the numbers of people claiming compensation, and the levels of compensation payable, as well as the administrative costs involved. The Working Party recognise that the relatively low costs associated with the Swedish Patient Insurance Scheme follow from the generosity of the Swedish social security provision for the disabled in relation to economic loss. However, the Working Party believe the restrictions suggested on the level of benefits under the scheme proposed in the report, are sufficient to imply an overall cost which is not excessive by comparison with the existing scheme, and that consideration should therefore be given to the appropriate means by which the scheme could be financed, and primary legislation drawn up. It is also emphasised that the improvements in the tort system, in accountability, and in data collection for risk management purposes are essential adjuncts to any such compensation scheme. Indeed, they would appear to be desirable independently of any future implementation of these no-fault proposals.
D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D006801:Humans; D007351:Insurance, Liability / Q000191:economics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D008318:Malpractice / Q000191:economics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006113:United Kingdom