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Liability reform and better ob-gyn access

An occasional snapshot of current facts and trends in medicine.

Quick View. Posted Oct. 6, 2008

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Tort reform in Illinois has had some impact in maintaining ob-gyn services, but liability remains a big concern.

2004 2008
In the past two years have you ....
Limited or stopped performing VBACs? 63% 37%
Performed more cesarean sections? 54% 34%
Limited the number of high-risk patients you see? 50% 34%
Decreased the scope of medical services offered? 47% 28%
Performed fewer major gynecological surgeries? 39% 30%
Added or expanded the scope of medical services? 21% 24%
In the past two years have you made a change as a result of professional liability concerns?
Limited or stopped performing VBACs 58% 32%
Performed more cesarean sections 48% 28%
Limited the number of high-risk patients you see 48% 29%
Decreased the scope of medical services offered 42% 25%
Performed fewer major gynecological surgeries 28% 20%
Added or expanded the scope of medical services 10% 6%

Since the state's lawmakers enacted medical liability reform in 2005, obstetrician-gynecologists have been less likely to reduce services. But a survey of 2,091 practicing ob-gyns also indicates the medical liability issue has not been laid to rest. Percentages represent physicians who answered "yes" to changes in their services before and after the reform.

Note: VBAC is vaginal birth after cesarean.

Sources: OB/GYN Crisis Coalition, Illinois Section of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

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