Disclosure programs reduce lawsuits, but bring challenges

Pennsylvania was the latest state to enact an apology protection law. The statute, which became effective in December 2013, shields any physician action, conduct, or statement that conveys a sense of apology, condolence, explanation, compassion, or commiseration "emanating from humane impulses."

So far, "there have not been any reports or complaints about the new law coming into the medical society," said Chuck Moran, director of media relations and public affairs at the Pennsylvania Medical Society. "That could be a good sign, or it could mean it’s too early to tell."