Locum Tenens Malpractice Insurance: Your Guide to Coverage, Costs & Claims

Embarking on a locum tenens journey? Don't forget essential malpractice insurance! It's your safety net, protecting your career and finances from the potential pitfalls of claims. But navigating the complexities of locum tenens malpractice insurance can feel overwhelming. Fear not, fellow locum tenens warriors! This blog post is your roadmap to understanding coverage, costs, and claims.

Understanding Your Coverage:

• Claims-Made vs. Occurrence: Claims-made covers claims filed during the policy period, regardless of when the incident occurred, but requires tail coverage for post-policy protection. Occurrence covers incidents during the policy's active period, regardless of claim timing.
• Policy Limits: These define the maximum payout per claim and per year. Common limits are $1 million/$3 million.
• Defense Costs: The policy covers legal fees associated with defending you against a claim.
• Reporting Requirements: Promptly report any adverse patient outcomes to your agency and/or insurance provider.

Locum Tenens Agency Coverage:

• Most agencies provide basic malpractice insurance. However, specifics like coverage type, limits, and tail options vary. Always ask your recruiter for detailed information before accepting an assignment.
• Examples: CompHealth offers claims-made coverage with $1 million/$3 million limits, while LocumTenens.com boasts a unique retroactive date provision for extended claims protection.

Costs and Considerations:

• Malpractice insurance premiums depend on factors like your specialty, experience, and claim history.
• Weigh the cost of coverage against the potential financial and career consequences of a claim.
• Some agencies offer competitive premiums or even cover the cost for certain specialties.

Additional Resources:

• AMN Healthcare: https://www.amnhealthcare.com/blog/physician/locums/medical-malpractice-insurance-for-physicians-types-costs-considerations/
• CompHealth: https://comphealth.com/resources/locum-tenens-malpractice-coverage
• LocumTenens.com: https://www.locumtenens.com/physician-resources/medical-malpractice/

Conclusion:

Locum tenens malpractice insurance is a non-negotiable element of your professional journey. By understanding your coverage, comparing agency offerings, and staying informed, you can confidently navigate the landscape of claims and protect your career. Remember, knowledge is power, and with the right insurance, you can embark on your locum tenens adventure with peace of mind.