Fact:
New Mexico’s high claim frequency and severity mean a growing share of dollars is going to:
- Litigation costs
- Defense expenses
- Insurance losses
This raises premiums for doctors and hospitals and contributes to service reductions — especially in rural communities. Malpractice compensation is important, but excessive volatility harms patient access.
Sources:
- Mello, M. M., et al. (2010). Medical malpractice costs and consequences. Health Affairs.
- Jena, A. B., et al. (2011). Malpractice liability and health care system costs. New England Journal of Medicine.
- WTW/MPLA. (2025). Claim severity and frequency analysis.