Different Systems of Liability to Patients
(pdf version)

Comparative Analysis of the Senate and House of Representative Bills Entitled "Bipartisan Patient Protection Act" (S. 1052 and H.R. 2563) Provisions on Liability to Patients

September 7, 2001

For more information, contact:
Wendy K. Mariner, J.D., LL.M, M.P.H.
Director, Patient Rights Program
Professor of Health Law
Boston University
Tel: 617 638-4626
FAX: 617 414-1464
wmariner@bu.edu

Table of Contents

• Executive Summary
• Figure 1: Senate and House Bill Procedures for Challenging an ERISA Plan Benefit Determination
• Table I: Comparison of S. 1052 and H.R. 2563 Liability Provisions
• Overview
• Federal v. State Law
• Scope of Liability and Effect on ERISA Preemption of State Claims
• Independent External Review Procedures
• Limitations on Judicial Review of Benefit Denials
• Designated Decisionmakers
• Remedies/Damages Allowed
• Examples of How the Bills Might Apply to Patient Claims
• Conclusion
• References

Full text is available in PDF Version