MO HB766

Effective January 1, 2014, all medical malpractice insurers in Missouri must establish premium rates for health care providers based on average judgments awarded in medical malpractice cases in the provider's county during the preceding calendar year.

If fewer than four medical malpractice cases occurred in the prior calendar year, insurers must use the average of judgments from the preceding five-year period in that county.

If fewer than four cases exist over the five-year period, insurers must use the average of judgments from the preceding calendar year in a similar county based on population, diversity of practice, and size and type of practice.

For providers practicing in multiple counties, premium rates must be adjusted based on the percentage of the provider's practice conducted in each county.

Covered health care providers include physicians, dentists, psychologists, pharmacists, nurses, hospitals, nursing homes, and other specified medical professionals, but exclude faith-based nursing facilities.