Fred Nathan, founder and executive director of Think New Mexico, has raised concerns about rising malpractice insurance premiums in the state, which he says are prompting doctors to leave and creating a healthcare crisis. Nathan made these remarks during a Suncast podcast on March 3.
"Why are doctors leaving? It's not because we have sicker patients," said Nathan, according to YouTube. "We've created a legal paradise for trial lawyers while making it a nightmare for doctors to practice medicine here."
In the podcast, Nathan explained that low Medicaid reimbursement rates and a tax on medical services are also contributing factors driving doctors out of New Mexico, thereby complicating access to healthcare. He said that malpractice premiums in New Mexico are nearly double those of neighboring states, attributing this to legal policies favoring trial lawyers. Nathan urged the legislature to take immediate action by reforming malpractice laws, increasing Medicaid reimbursements, and eliminating the medical services tax to retain and attract healthcare providers.
The LA Daily Post reports that New Mexico's Senate Bill 176 proposes reforms to the state's medical malpractice system. A significant provision directs 75% of punitive damages awarded in malpractice cases to a newly established public fund. This fund is intended for initiatives aimed at enhancing patient safety and reducing future instances of malpractice, such as improving medical staffing ratios and providing additional training for healthcare providers.
According to its website, Think New Mexico is a nonpartisan think tank focused on improving the quality of life for all New Mexicans through practical policy solutions in areas like education, healthcare, and economic development. Founded in 1999, it emphasizes evidence-based approaches.
Nathan previously served as Special Counsel to New Mexico Attorney General Tom Udall from 1991 to 1998. During his tenure, he played a key role in several legislative initiatives and managed the state's $1.25 billion lawsuit against the tobacco industry. He has also been involved with Santa Fe Preparatory School and the Thornburg Foundation boards and is a former trustee of Williams College.
