MEDICAL INJURY COLLABORATIVE RESOLUTION ACT

HB 15, the Medical Injury Collaborative Resolution Act, creates a formal process for patients and healthcare providers to discuss adverse health care outcomes (like injuries or deaths resulting from care) through "adverse outcome conferences." It directly affects patients who experience medical harm and healthcare providers involved in those incidents. Key provisions require written notice about patient rights (including medical records access and legal counsel), mandate that statements made during conferences cannot establish fault or limit legal claims, and require providers to keep settlement offers open for 15 days. The bill does not change lawsuit timelines or legal liability but aims to facilitate open communication and potential settlements outside of court. The bill is currently pending in the New Mexico legislature after passing committee reviews.