The White House yesterday announced a $25-million demonstration program to help states and health systems test new models for patient safety and medical liability. Beginning next year, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality will award grants of up to $3 million over three years to demonstration projects that seek to reduce preventable injuries, foster better communication between physicians and patients, ensure patients are fairly and quickly compensated for medical injuries, and reduce frivolous lawsuits and liability premiums for physicians. Program details will be announced no later than Oct. 17 at www.grants.gov. Before the announcement is finalized, the AHRQ's National Advisory Council will convene a subcommittee with representation from expert and stakeholder groups to develop recommendations for the initiative.