Recent studies have shown that medical malpractice cases have not returned larger settlements than in the past. In fact, a recent study released by the center of Justice and Democracy found that, between the years 2000 and 2004, the amount paid in settlements only increased by 5.7 percent. This minor increase is nothing compared to medical malpractice insurance rates. According to the same study, medical malpractice insurance rates increased an enormous 120 percent! So, why are medical malpractice rates up? The answer to that question is a shocking one. The study reported that insurance companies have increased their surpluses. Insurance companies are making more money at the expense of doctors- and, ultimately their patients.
