Bill > HF161

This bill makes several key changes related to damage awards against healthcare providers in Iowa. Firstly, it clarifies that the loss of dependent care, including child care, due to the death or severe injury of a spouse or parent who is the primary caregiver, is considered economic damages rather than noneconomic damages. Secondly, it modifies the cap on noneconomic damages, increasing it from $250,000 to $1 million or $2 million if a hospital is involved, depending on the severity of the injury. Additionally, the bill provides for an automatic 2.1% annual increase in the damage caps starting in 2028. Finally, the bill creates a Medical Error Task Force to review medical error rates, make recommendations to reduce errors, and consider whether penalties and licensure measures are sufficient. The bill takes effect immediately and applies to causes of action accrued on or after the effective date.

Health And Human Services (House)

https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=90&ba=HF161