The number of medical malpractice suits filed in Pennsylvania in 2003 fell by 28.6% vs. the previous 3-year period, according to preliminary data compiled by the state's Supreme Court. Philadelphia showed the greatest decrease with a 58% drop, with Pittsburgh coming in second with a 31.5% drop.

The decrease in the number of medical malpractice cases was attributed to two tort reform measures adopted in 2003. One measure requires attorneys to confirm that a suit is not frivolous by obtaining a certificate of merit from a medical professional. The other measure limits the filing of cases to the county where the cause of action took place, reported 

 Critics of the state's first effort to track the number of medical malpractice   suits cautioned that the data evaluating just 1 year do not indicate a trend.   They also noted that the data failed to evaluate the severity of awards and   settlements or whether the number of meritless lawsuits decreased. 