Mandatory Pre‐Suit Mediation for Medical Malpractice: Eight‐Year Results and Future Innovations

Abstract

Situated in the litigious state of Florida, UF Health implemented its mandatory pre‐suit mediation program in 2008 to compensate meritorious medical malpractice claims quickly, combat increasing attorney fees and costs, reduce frivolous lawsuits, and facilitate early, confidential communication to enhance the patient‐provider relationship. Data analysis over the program's eight‐year history demonstrates positive impacts on legal expenses and resolution time; results show a reduction in legal expenses of 87 percent as compared to traditional litigation and average receipt‐to‐resolution time of less than six months. The authors examine the Florida infrastructure supporting the program's success and offer recommendations for future expansions.