Opinion ID: 1844909
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: the court erred in excluding drug bills offered under section 41-9-119

Text: Mississippi Code Annotated section 41-9-119 (1972) provides: Proof that medical, hospital, and doctor bills were paid or incurred because of any illness, disease, or injury shall be prima facie evidence that such bills so paid or incurred were necessary and reasonable. When a party takes the witness stand and exhibits bills for examination by the court and testifies that said bills were incurred as a result of the injuries complained of, they become prima facie evidence that the bills so paid or incurred were necessary and reasonable. However, the opposing party may, if desired, rebut the necessity and reasonableness of the bills by proper evidence. The ultimate question is then for the jury to determine. If the bills are for drugs and/or medication purchased, they should be itemized to show the name of the drug and/or medication, the date of the purchase and the prescription number where appropriate. If the bills are for hospital care they should show a fair itemization of the services rendered and charges made. If the bills are for physician care they should represent a fair itemization of services rendered and charges made. As this matter requires reversal for trial on damages, the bills introduced on retrial should conform to the above requirements. Modern-day jurors, by and large, are enlightened and well educated. They have a right to know what services and/or goods were provided for the charges made. This can serve as an aid in their deliberations with respect to the seriousness and extent of the injuries complained of.