RI H7548

Statements expressing apology, sympathy, regret, condolence, or compassion made by healthcare providers or facilities to patients, their relatives, or representatives following unanticipated medical outcomes cannot be used as evidence of liability in civil actions, arbitration, or administrative proceedings.

Protected communications include verbal statements, gestures, writings, and any conduct expressing concern related to a patient's discomfort, pain, suffering, injury, or death resulting from unexpected medical treatment results.

Explicit statements of fault, liability, negligence, or culpable conduct remain admissible as evidence, even if made alongside an apology or expression of sympathy.

"Unanticipated outcome" is defined as any medical treatment or procedure result that differs from the expected result.

The act would take effect immediately upon passage.