Speaker Morgan Appoints Clary to House Blue Ribbon Task Force on Medical Malpractice
September 12, 2003

Raleigh - Speaker Richard Morgan and Speaker Jim Black today established the House Blue Ribbon Task Force on Medical Malpractice. Among Speaker Morgan’s appointments was Representative Debbie Clary. Speaker Morgan said, “This is an issue on which I have worked very hard over the years. The House will now have a meaningful study of this issue during the interim while the General Assembly is adjourned. Debbie will be an asset to this task force and I am confident that she and the other members will be productive.”

The Task Force is charged with conducting a study of medical malpractice and making comprehensive recommendations for fundamental reform, an issue that has strong support from a variety of people and groups. “I understand the situation that physicians face with rising insurance costs. I am pleased that the House is taking a proactive role in finding answers to this problem. I am also honored that the Speakers would choose me to participate in this important task force,” added Representative Clary.

The task force will consider the complex causes of and remedies for medical malpractice as well as the rapidly escalating professional liability premiums for health care providers. The impact of medical malpractice issues on health care accessibility in North Carolina and all matters related to the adjudication of medical negligence claims in the civil justice system will also be studied. The Task Force will also address any issues related to the quality of medical care and the impact on health care access.