Many of the state’s doctors are optimistic that a change in the Governor’s office will bring them something they want – a litigation reform bill that will be signed into law. Twice in the last couple of years the Republican-controlled Legislature has sent litigation reform legislation to Democrat Governor Bob Holden and twice he has vetoed the effort. Doctor Joseph Yasso of Independence says lawmakers, trial attorneys, insurance companies, and the doctors must be brought together to address the concerns affecting the availability of health care in Missouri. Governor-elect Matt Blunt – a Republican – has promised to sign a litigation reform bill. He and the doctors say it’s necessary to protect Missouri’s physicians from sue-happy trial attorneys.
