MEDICAL MALPRACTICE

Amends the Illinois Insurance Code. In provisions pertaining to the rates and rating schedules of companies writing medical liability insurance, provides that if a company's rate filing seeks a rate increase of 10% or more, such a rate increase may not go into effect without prior approval of the Director of the Department of Insurance. Requires the company to provide the Director with information as the Director deems appropriate to evaluate the company's filing. Provides that if, after a hearing, the Director finds that the rate increase is excessive under standards that shall be adopted by the Director by rule, the Director shall reduce the amount of the rate increase, and the reduced rate shall go into effect. Provides that if, after a hearing, the Director finds that the rate increase is appropriate under those standards, the rate shall go into effect. Requires the Department of Insurance and all medical organizations to disclose and make accessible to the public a listing of all registered and operating medical liability insurance providers in this State including all addresses and telephone numbers and the names of all agents and brokers associated with such providers. Amends the Medical Practice Act of 1987. In provisions pertaining to continuing education, requires risk management training. Amends the Code of Civil Procedure. Provides that every medical malpractice action must be commenced in the county where the occurrence or incident took place. Effective immediately.