Illinois’ largest medical malpractice insurer announced Wednesday it would reduce its physician policy holders’ average premiums by 5.2 percent for the upcoming policy year.

ISMIE Mutual Insurance Company officials credited recent litigation reforms for “modest” reductions in claims frequency and a relatively flat number of claims.

ISMIE Mutual’s chairman Dr. Harold Jensen was cautiously optimistic. Jensen said even though the results appear promising, other medical liability insurers are not yet flocking to Illinois because they are waiting to see if the reforms will survive if they are challenged by anti-reform groups.

- Neurosurgeons in Cook and Will counties who also are policyholders with $1 million to $3 million coverage limits will pay a premium of $228,484.

- Pediatricians and OB/GYNs in Cook and Will counties will have premiums of $25,088 and $138,484, respectively, said the ISMIE.