ASSEMBLY HEALTH COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

SENATE, No. 267

with committee amendments

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED: SEPTEMBER 19, 1996

      The Assembly Health Committee reports favorably and with committee amendments Senate Bill No. 267.

      As amended by the committee, this bill requires all physicians and podiatrists who maintain a professional medical practice in the State and have responsibility for patient care to be covered by medical malpractice insurance or, if coverage is not available, a letter of credit for at least a minimum amount as specified by the State Board of Medical Examiners.

      This requirement is intended to ensure the citizens of the State that they will have some recourse for adequate compensation in the event that a physician or podiatrist is found responsible for acts of malpractice.

      The bill requires the State Board of Medical Examiners to notify all State licensed physicians and podiatrists of the requirements of this bill within 30 days of the date of enactment of the bill.

      The committee amendments expand the provisions of the bill to apply its requirement for medical malpractice liability insurance coverage or a letter of credit to practicing podiatrists, as well as physicians.