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Local Doctors' Group Seeks Legislation Limiting Malpractice Claims

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RALEIGH, N.C. — The rising cost of health care in North Carolina is at a crisis level, according to the American Medical Association.

A group of Wake County doctors blames the problem on what they call frivolous malpractice lawsuits. The doctors support federal legislation that would put a $250,000 cap on "pain and suffering" claims.

"It's the concept of limiting pain and suffering," said Dr. Dan Albright, a malpractice reform supporter. "Patients should get some, but we have to have some limit, or insurance companies can't be in business, and they leave. They're leaving North Carolina."

The doctors held a press conference Sunday, a day after John Kerry and John Edwards came to town for a rally. Edwards is a former trial lawyer who made his fortune in the courtroom and voted against legislation limiting claims.

The doctors said they planned their event last week, and the timing was purely coincidental.

Edwards' campaign could not be reached for comment.

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