What Does Medical Malpractice Insurance Cover?
Medical malpractice insurance provides coverage for healthcare professionals against claims of negligence or harm caused during the provision of medical services. This type of liability insurance is crucial for doctors, nurses, and other medical practitioners who face the risk of lawsuits from patients or their families.
Key Coverage Aspects:
- Legal Defense Costs: This insurance covers the expenses associated with defending against a malpractice claim, including attorney fees, court costs, and other related legal expenses.
- Settlements and Judgments: If a claim results in a settlement or a court judgment against the insured, the policy provides financial coverage for these amounts, up to the policy limits.
- Claims Made Basis: Most malpractice policies operate on a "claims made" basis, meaning coverage is effective if the claim is made during the policy period, regardless of when the alleged incident occurred.
- Incident Investigation: Insurance providers often assist in investigating incidents that could lead to claims, offering risk management resources to minimize future risks.
- Emotional Distress Claims: Coverage may also extend to claims of emotional distress caused by perceived medical negligence.
Remember, the specifics of coverage can vary from one insurance policy to another, and it's essential for healthcare professionals to review their policy details carefully.