SB 799 – Provides that parties may introduce evidence of the cost, rather than the value, of the medical treatment rendered for the purpose of calculating damages

• Sponsor: Emery
• LR Number: 5369S.02I
• Committee: Small Business, Insurance and Industry
• Last Action: 3/11/2014 - Voted Do Pass S Small Business, Insurance and Industry Committee
• Effective Date: August 28, 2014

Current Bill Summary

SB 799 - Currently when calculating the amount of damages owed for medical treatment in a lawsuit, parties may introduce evidence of the value of the medical treatment rendered to the plaintiff, and there is a rebuttable presumption that the value of the medical treatment provided is represented by the dollar amount necessary to satisfy the financial obligation to the health care provider.

This act provides that the parties may introduce evidence of the cost, rather than the value, of the medical treatment rendered. The cost of any medical treatment shall not exceed the dollar amount paid for by any source to satisfy the financial obligation of the health care provider for the treatment. This evidence shall not include information that a collateral source, such as an insurer, has made payments for the plaintiff's damages.

JESSICA BAKER