CONTACT US: Contact info
|
Citation |
Bismark M, Paterson R. Health Aff. (Hope) 2006; 25(1): 278-283. |
|
Affiliation |
Buddle Findlay in Wellington, New Zealand. |
|
Copyright |
(Copyright © 2006, Project HOPE - The People-to-People Health Foundation) |
|
DOI |
|
PMID |
16403765 |
|
Abstract |
In 1974 New Zealand jettisoned a tort-based system for compensating medical injuries in favor of a government-funded compensation system. Although the system retained some residual fault elements, it essentially barred medical malpractice litigation. Reforms in 2005 expanded eligibility for compensation to all "treatment injuries," creating a true no-fault compensation system. Compared with a medical malpractice system, the New Zealand system offers more-timely compensation to a greater number of injured patients and more-effective processes for complaint resolution and provider accountability. The unfinished business lies in realizing its full potential for improving patient safety. |