A US poll shows that nearly 60% of Americans support the introduction of legislation to limit medical liability payouts. The poll, which recorded 58% of people in favour of reform, follows a range of troubles with medical malpractice insurance. Several states have had to rescue medical malpractice insurance schemes, and some doctors have even gone on strike over it.

The Alliance of American Insurers said the poll shows that people understand the real reason for the skyrocketing premiums of medical liability cover. Another 48% of respondents supported a $US250,000 limit on non-economic damages.