Law professor: Medical apology programs might manipulate patients

The idea that a simple "I'm sorry" could help reduce the number of medical malpractice lawsuits is gaining a foothold in Massachusetts. Seven hospitals in the state recently adopted an apology program, and the governor's healthcare cost control bill includes this approach, too. The thinking behind it is that when doctors apologize for making mistakes, patients are less likely to sue—and everyone benefits. But Gabriel Teninbaum, an associate professor at Suffolk University Law School, has a contrarian view. He spoke with WBUR's All Things Considered host Sacha Pfeiffer.