A new health care professional - the laborist?

Ten years from now, many babies could be delivered by doctors who are total strangers to the mothers. BD

Medical malpractice insurance for obstetricians and gynecologists could become so expensive that only hospitals — and the doctors under their insurance umbrellas — could afford coverage for birthings. Dr. David Herzog says insurance costs will affect care. According to the Web site of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, ob-gyn practitioners, on average, have nearly three claims filed against them during their careers.

For expectant moms it means their gynecologists, after shepherding them through nine months, would hand them over to a "laborist" — a hospital staff doctor specializing in delivering babies.

Increase in lawsuits discourages obstetricians from delivering babies

Hat Tip: Kevin, MD