Situated in the litigious state of Florida, UF Health implemented its mandatory pre‐suit mediation program in 2008 to compensate meritorious medical malpractice claims quickly, combat increasing attorney fees and costs, reduce frivolous lawsuits, and facilitate early, confidential communication to enhance the patient‐provider relationship. Data analysis over the program's eight‐year history demonstrates positive impacts on legal expenses and resolution time; results show a reduction in legal expenses of 87 percent as compared to traditional litigation and average receipt‐to‐resolution time of less than six months. The authors examine the Florida infrastructure supporting the program's success and offer recommendations for future expansions.

Severe neurological outcomes sustained in childhood often result in lifetime health care needs that are beyond the financial means of most families. When severe neurological deficits are alleged to have resulted from professional negligence, relief may be sought through litigation; however, the American tort system often yields inconsistent results or no compensation for patients. We sought to identify a reasonable, objective, and data-based monetary range for a no-fault compensation system with high- and low-financial limits for those with severe neurological deficits. Based on documented life expectancies and attendant care cost studies, the data analysis indicates a no-fault settlement payment ranging from US$479,712.24 to $3,098,504.16, reasonably ensures care and services for life.