Previously, we have been the world leader in device and materials development but our regulatory processes have markedly impeded this. Decisions are often delayed perhaps in the interest of self-preservation. The appropriateness of this attitude may be affirmed when we observe that prior decisions, later judged to be inappropriate, frequently are rewarded by career annihilation. Economics, politics, and emotion often play a significant role in this re-review process. Liability risk, attendant to the development of new therapeutic techniques and materials should be controlled while continuing to preserve public safety.
Tort reform is long overdue.
For example, they proposed that by influencing payment for post-graduate medical training in the New York State teaching institutions the number of specialists could be reduced. In contrast to many other specialties the number of practicing thoracic surgeons has remained relatively constant. The American Board of Thoracic Surgery and the Residency Review Committee for Thoracic Surgery have assured their quality. The recent decision restricting private contracts between physicians and Medicare patients denies Medicare patients the freedom of choice that is available to those not covered by Medicare. This decision is being challenged in the courts.