RI H7646

Creates a three-member medical malpractice tribunal consisting of a Superior Court justice, a licensed attorney, and a healthcare provider from the same or similar specialty as the defendant to screen all malpractice claims within 15 days of the defendant's answer being filed.

Tribunal determines whether plaintiff's evidence raises a "legitimate question of liability" or represents "merely an unfortunate medical result," without resolving factual disputes, assessing credibility, or determining damages.

If the tribunal finds insufficient evidence, plaintiff must post a $6,000 bond to proceed, which may be reduced (but not eliminated) for indigent plaintiffs or cases of undue hardship; failure to post within 30 days results in dismissal without prejudice.

Tribunal findings are admissible as evidence at trial, and non-judicial tribunal members receive compensation at rates set by the Supreme Court Chief Justice.

Applies to all medical malpractice actions filed on or after January 1, 2027.