The Nassau County Medical Society firmly believes that the Grieving Families Act would cause complications for healthcare providers and patients alike.

We stand with the Medical Society of the State of New York in support of this veto and in our dedication to advocating for physicians and patients throughout the state.

The GFA would “expand recovery rights of a decedent’s surviving ‘close family’ in a wrongful death case” and consequently impact New Yorkers whose cost of health-care, insurance, and other health-related expenses could increase by billions of dollars.

We have already seen an increase in medical malpractice premiums. However, this bill could create an even further “40% hike in [these] premiums” for private physicians. Hospitals could also see a “45% [increase]… per New York’s Medical Society.”

The GFA expands the capability to sue a medical provider to any grieving family member for up to 3 1/2 years after losing a loved one.

This bill could result in higher wait times at emergency departments and further delays and obstacles to physicians providing and patients receiving accessible and affordable health care.

We advocate for physicians through our actions and call all New Yorkers and policymakers to contact Gov. Hochul and have this bill vetoed.

The efforts and voices of our citizens in this matter will undoubtedly catalyze positive change in medical practices throughout the state. Please join us alongside MSSNY, all other county medical societies, and state legislators in publicly stating our opposition to this bill.

When we work together, we protect the medical profession and secure patients’ access to quality, affordable health care.

Dr. David Podwall

President

Nassau County Medical Society