9cff82d2__Your_Indispensable_Guide_TIME__What_it_is
[Term] Defensive Medicine [Why it matters] Many doctors acknowledge that they practice defensive medicine but say they have no choice because they are constantly worried about being sued. Tort reform  like capping malpractice awards  could help. Obama says he knows defensive medicine is a problem, but he does not support capping malpractice awards. [What it is] 
Doctors and hospitals performing unnecessary tests and procedures on patients to ward of potential malpractice lawsuits. This practice drives up overall health-care spending. Meanwhile, malpractice insurance can cost doctors hundreds of thousands of dollars per year.
Understanding the Health-Care Debate: Your Indispensable Guide-TIME
What it is