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Governor proposes measures to reduce medical mistakes

BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Friday, July 14, 2006 9:18 AM CDT

SPRINGFIELD_ Gov. Rod Blagojevich on Thursday proposed a set of measures designed to reduce medical mistakes, a year after he and legislators approved limits on malpractice lawsuits stemming from such errors.

Blagojevich proposed a voluntary computer prescription program and more focus on medical practices to cut down on the more than 4,000 Illinoisans who die each year from medical errors.

He wants all health care providers to use computerized prescriptions within five years to avoid pharmacy mix-ups. The state also is creating a new patient safety division to standardize medication practices and reduce mistakes.

"Knowing that the medicine we receive is the right one, and knowing that we've addressed the common causes of medical errors means peace of mind for doctors, for nurses, for pharmacists, for hospitals, and most importantly, it means peace of mind, and better care, for all of us," Blagojevich said in a statement.

The proposal drew widespread praise for its intent, but some warned it's not a panacea.

"While laudable, nothing in this mitigates the rights that we're taking away in the malpractice legislation," said Rep. John Fritchey, a Chicago Democrat who called the plan "somewhat bittersweet."