Peach Tree Times

Governor Kemp Hosts Roundtable on Healthcare Civil Litigation Issues

September 12, 2024

MACON, GA - Joined by other state leaders, Governor Brian P. Kemp hosted representatives from Georgia's healthcare industry for a roundtable discussion on civil litigation policies impacting the state's healthcare providers and affordability for Georgians. The event at Atrium Health's Macon campus was part of a series of listening sessions announced earlier this month.

Participants included representatives from the Georgia Hospital Association, Georgia Medical Association, Georgia Health Care Association, and private practitioners.

“Improving healthcare access and affordability has been one of my top priorities since day one of my administration,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “As part of our comprehensive approach to that issue, we are committed to hearing from healthcare practitioners on how the civil litigation climate in our state is impacting their ability to best care for Georgians. I'm grateful for their engagement on this topic as we look into how best to approach reform.”

The first roundtable in August focused on small business leaders and the impacts of civil lawsuits on their operations. The initial step towards litigation reform began with the passage of the Data Analysis for Tort Reform Act during the 2024 legislative session, sponsored by Rep. Will Wade. This act created a mechanism to gather necessary information to guide further steps. Both chambers of the General Assembly also worked on legislation related to civil litigation, including SB 426 and SB 83.

“I really appreciate the work from Governor Kemp, Lt. Governor Jones, Speaker Burns, and all members of the General Assembly for helping us move the ball forward last session,” said Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King. “Lawsuit abuse reform is needed to ensure Georgia and its citizens stay in the forefront of states to do business.”

Governor Kemp discussed challenges posed by current liability laws on the healthcare industry and patients in Georgia.

“Georgia’s current healthcare liability laws are pulling vital resources away from our core mission – caring for patients and supporting our communities,” said Caylee Noggle, President and CEO of the Georgia Hospital Association. “While we firmly believe in holding providers accountable for patient care, many of these laws restrict access to care and threaten the survival of healthcare facilities across the state."

“On behalf of the Medical Association of Georgia, I want to thank Governor Brian Kemp for his focus on civil justice reform,” said Dr. Brett Cannon of the Medical Association of Georgia. “Georgia has a number of healthcare challenges exacerbated by the current legal climate."

“I am grateful to Governor Kemp for bringing together our state's top legislative leaders and representatives from across the healthcare continuum,” said Chris Downing, President and CEO of the Georgia Health Care Association.

Participants discussed impacts on insurance rates and availability within the healthcare industry. Easing economic burdens while enhancing access to quality healthcare remains a priority.

Hosted by Atrium Health, today's roundtable was an opportunity for continued engagement on this critical issue.