Gay Mitchell
Ceist:217 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on the concerns expressed by the Medical Defence Union on the crisis in litigation in obstetrics and gynaecology. [28164/00]
Written Answers. - Malpractice Litigation Levels.
I am well aware of the concerns expressed by the Medical Defence Union about trends in medical malpractice litigation in general and the particular problem with cases arising from high risk specialties like obstetrics. I have discussed these issues with the MDU on two occasions since September. The medical defence bodies and the insurance industry are all in agreement that the Department of Health and Children's proposals to introduce enterprise liability as the basis for indemnifying doctors represent the best way forward. I am committed to working with the defence bodies and the medical profession to resolve these problems in a manner which benefits hospitals, doctors and patients.