In this powerful episode, general surgeon Dr. Courtney Kemp shares her journey from a small town in Montana to establishing a successful private practice in Minnesota. She opens up about the pivotal moments that led her to become a national advocate for medical liability reform, and how early career complications transformed her into a leader in physician protection and legislative change.

Early Career & Mentorship:

Grew up in a rural town with limited exposure to medicine.

Influenced by college professors and supportive residency leadership at Hennepin.

Chose private practice for flexibility and family reasons.

Business of Private Practice:

Highlights the importance of understanding practice finances, proper documentation, and timely invoicing.

Advocates for collaboration between employed physicians and private practice.

Medical Liability Awareness:

Two early complications (port placement and retained sponge) ignited her passion for liability reform.

Became active in her liability insurance board to understand systemic issues.

Litigation’s Toll on Physicians:

Emotional, financial, and reputational damage of being sued.

Shocking statistics: 500% rise in litigation with increased transparency.

Describes physician vulnerability and altruism as a double-edged sword.

Legal & Legislative Advocacy:

Helped create Minnesota Physicians for Reform.

Modeled reform efforts after Utah’s bill (caps on non-economic damages, asset protections).

Explained different types of damages and need for fair caps to protect access to care.

Current Climate & Physician Risks:

Growing threats include cyberbullying, violence, and suicide—often connected to litigation stress.

Discusses social inflation, reptile theory, and litigation financing as rising threats.

Remediation & Patient Trust:

Advocates for early, honest communication after harm events.

Encourages open dialogue, assuming good intent, and sharing knowledge with patients.

Call to Action for Physicians:

Get involved with state health committees, medical societies, and tort reform efforts.

Talk to legislators and medical liability carriers (like SVMIC).

Visit www.healthcare4reform.org to learn more and take action.