What Does Medical Malpractice Insurance Cover?
Protecting Your Practice: Understanding Medical Malpractice Insurance Coverage
Medical malpractice insurance is a crucial form of protection for healthcare professionals, as it provides coverage in the event of a lawsuit or claim related to medical malpractice. As a healthcare provider, it’s important to understand what medical malpractice insurance covers and how it works.
Medical malpractice insurance covers a wide range of incidents that could potentially result in a lawsuit or claim, such as misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication errors, and other types of negligence. It can also provide coverage for legal defense costs, settlements, and judgments.
Without medical malpractice insurance, healthcare providers could face significant financial losses due to legal fees and damages awarded in a malpractice lawsuit. Even if a provider is found not liable in a malpractice case, the costs of defending against the lawsuit can be substantial. In some cases, a provider may even be forced to close their practice due to financial difficulties.
In addition to professional liability coverage, medical malpractice insurance can also include general liability coverage and cyber liability coverage. General liability coverage can protect healthcare providers against bodily injury and property damage claims, while cyber liability coverage can protect against data breaches and cyber attacks.
Understanding the different types of coverage available is important when choosing the right medical malpractice insurance policy for your practice. It’s also important to understand the limits and exclusions of your policy, as well as how to choose an insurance provider that meets your needs.
In this article, we will explore the different types of medical malpractice insurance coverage, including professional liability, general liability, and cyber liability coverage. We will also discuss the limits and exclusions of medical malpractice insurance policies and provide tips for choosing the right coverage for your practice.
Medical Malpractice Insurance Coverage
Professional Liability Coverage
Professional liability coverage, also known as malpractice or errors and omissions insurance, is the primary type of coverage provided by medical malpractice insurance policies. This coverage protects healthcare providers against claims of negligence or errors related to their professional services.
Coverage for Medical Negligence Claims
Medical negligence claims are the most common type of claim covered by professional liability coverage. This type of claim arises when a healthcare provider fails to provide a patient with the standard of care that would be expected of a reasonable healthcare provider in similar circumstances. This can include misdiagnosis, errors in treatment or medication, and surgical errors.
Professional liability coverage can provide financial protection in the event of a medical negligence claim by covering the costs of legal defense and any damages awarded to the plaintiff.
Coverage for Legal Defense Costs
Legal defense costs can quickly add up in a malpractice lawsuit, even if the healthcare provider is ultimately found not liable. Professional liability coverage can provide coverage for legal defense costs, including attorney fees, court costs, and expert witness fees.
Coverage for Settlements and Judgments
In the event that a healthcare provider is found liable for medical malpractice, they may be required to pay damages to the plaintiff. Professional liability coverage can provide coverage for settlements and judgments, up to the policy limits.
General Liability Coverage
General liability coverage is another type of coverage that may be included in a medical malpractice insurance policy. This coverage provides protection against claims of bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury.
Coverage for Bodily Injury Claims
Bodily injury claims can arise when a patient is injured as a result of a healthcare provider’s actions or negligence. This can include slip and fall injuries in the healthcare provider’s office or injuries caused by faulty equipment.
General liability coverage can provide coverage for legal defense costs and damages awarded to the plaintiff in the event of a bodily injury claim.
Coverage for Property Damage Claims
Property damage claims can arise when a healthcare provider’s actions or negligence result in damage to a patient’s property. This can include damage to a patient’s vehicle or personal property.
General liability coverage can provide coverage for legal defense costs and damages awarded to the plaintiff in the event of a property damage claim.
Coverage for Advertising Injury Claims
Advertising injury claims can arise when a healthcare provider’s advertising or marketing materials result in a lawsuit. This can include claims of copyright infringement, defamation, or false advertising.
General liability coverage can provide coverage for legal defense costs and damages awarded to the plaintiff in the event of an advertising injury claim.
Cyber Liability Coverage
Cyber liability coverage is a relatively new type of coverage that may be included in a medical malpractice insurance policy. This coverage provides protection against cyber attacks and data breaches.
Coverage for Cyber Attacks and Data Breaches
Cyber attacks and data breaches can result in the loss of sensitive patient information, including medical records and financial information. This can lead to significant financial losses for healthcare providers, as well as damage to their reputation.
Cyber liability coverage can provide coverage for legal defense costs, damages, and other costs associated with a cyber attack or data breach.
Coverage for Regulatory Fines and Penalties
In the event of a cyber attack or data breach, healthcare providers may be subject to regulatory fines and penalties. Cyber liability coverage can provide coverage for these costs, which can be substantial.
Coverage for Notification and Credit Monitoring Costs
In the event of a cyber attack or data breach, healthcare providers may be required to notify affected patients and provide credit monitoring services. Cyber liability coverage can provide coverage for these costs, which can also be substantial.
Understanding the importance of cyber liability coverage is essential for healthcare providers in today’s digital age. With the increasing reliance on technology to store sensitive patient information, the risks of cyber attacks and data breaches are higher than ever before. Healthcare providers who fail to adequately protect patient information may face not only reputational damage but also legal and financial consequences.
Having cyber liability coverage as part of medical malpractice insurance can provide peace of mind for healthcare providers. It can help cover the costs associated with a cyber attack or data breach, including legal defense costs, regulatory fines and penalties, and notification and credit monitoring costs. It is important to carefully review policy language to ensure that cyber liability coverage is included and to understand the limits of the coverage.
In addition to having adequate insurance coverage, healthcare providers should also implement best practices for data security, such as regularly updating software and systems, using strong passwords, and limiting access to sensitive information. By taking proactive steps to protect patient information and having adequate cyber liability coverage, healthcare providers can minimize the risk of cyber attacks and data breaches and focus on providing quality care to their patients.
Medical Malpractice Insurance Limits
Medical malpractice insurance policies typically have limits on the amount of coverage provided for each claim or for all claims made during a policy period. Understanding these limits is crucial when selecting a policy, as it can impact the amount of financial protection provided in the event of a malpractice claim.
Per Occurrence Limits
Definition of Per Occurrence Limits
Per occurrence limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage provided for each individual claim made against a healthcare provider. This limit is typically stated in the policy as a dollar amount.
Importance of Per Occurrence Limits
Per occurrence limits are important because they determine the amount of financial protection available for each claim. If a claim exceeds the per occurrence limit, the healthcare provider may be responsible for paying any additional costs out of pocket.
Examples of Per Occurrence Limits
Per occurrence limits can vary depending on the policy and the healthcare provider’s needs. For example, a policy may have a per occurrence limit of $1 million, meaning that the policy will cover up to $1 million for each individual claim made against the healthcare provider.
Aggregate Limits
Definition of Aggregate Limits
Aggregate limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage provided for all claims made during a policy period. This limit is also typically stated in the policy as a dollar amount.
Importance of Aggregate Limits
Aggregate limits are important because they determine the total amount of financial protection available during the policy period. If the total amount of claims made during the policy period exceeds the aggregate limit, the healthcare provider may be responsible for paying any additional costs out of pocket.
Examples of Aggregate Limits
Aggregate limits can vary depending on the policy and the healthcare provider’s needs. For example, a policy may have an aggregate limit of $5 million, meaning that the policy will cover up to $5 million for all claims made against the healthcare provider during the policy period.
Policy Limits
Definition of Policy Limits
Policy limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage provided under a medical malpractice insurance policy. This includes both per occurrence and aggregate limits.
Importance of Policy Limits
Policy limits are important because they determine the total amount of financial protection available to the healthcare provider. If a claim exceeds the policy limits, the healthcare provider may be responsible for paying any additional costs out of pocket.
Examples of Policy Limits
Policy limits can vary depending on the policy and the healthcare provider’s needs. For example, a policy may have a policy limit of $10 million, meaning that the policy will cover up to $10 million in total for all claims made against the healthcare provider during the policy period.
Understanding the limits of a medical malpractice insurance policy is crucial when selecting a policy. Healthcare providers should carefully review the policy limits and ensure that they provide adequate financial protection for their practice. In some cases, it may be necessary to purchase additional coverage or increase the limits of an existing policy to ensure adequate protection.
Medical Malpractice Insurance Exclusions
While medical malpractice insurance provides crucial coverage for healthcare providers, it’s important to note that there are certain types of claims that may be excluded from coverage. These exclusions can vary depending on the policy and the insurance provider.
Intentional Acts
Definition of Intentional Acts
Intentional acts refer to actions taken with the intent to cause harm or injury. These acts are typically not covered under medical malpractice insurance policies.
Examples of Intentional Acts
Examples of intentional acts that may be excluded from coverage include assault and battery, sexual misconduct, and intentional falsification of medical records.
Criminal Acts
Definition of Criminal Acts
Criminal acts refer to actions that violate criminal laws. These acts are typically not covered under medical malpractice insurance policies.
Examples of Criminal Acts
Examples of criminal acts that may be excluded from coverage include theft of prescription drugs, illegal prescribing practices, and insurance fraud.
Employment-Related Claims
Definition of Employment-Related Claims
Employment-related claims refer to claims made by employees against their employer. These claims are typically not covered under medical malpractice insurance policies.
Examples of Employment-Related Claims
Examples of employment-related claims that may be excluded from coverage include claims of sexual harassment or discrimination, wage and hour violations, and wrongful termination.
It’s important to review the exclusions of a medical malpractice insurance policy carefully. Healthcare providers should be aware of any exclusions that may impact their coverage and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed. Additionally, healthcare providers should always act with the utmost professionalism and avoid intentional or criminal acts that could result in a claim being excluded from coverage.
How to Choose Medical Malpractice Insurance Coverage
Choosing the right medical malpractice insurance coverage is crucial for healthcare providers. It’s important to assess your needs, understand insurance terms, and compare insurance providers to ensure that you have adequate coverage.
Assessing Your Needs
Reviewing Your Practice History
Reviewing your practice history can help you identify any patterns of claims or lawsuits. This information can help you assess your risks and determine the appropriate amount of coverage.
Evaluating Your Practice’s Risks
Evaluating your practice’s risks involves identifying potential areas of liability and determining the likelihood of a claim or lawsuit. This can include reviewing your patient population, procedures performed, and staffing levels.
Considering State Requirements
State requirements for medical malpractice insurance coverage can vary. It’s important to review your state’s requirements and ensure that you have adequate coverage to meet those requirements.
Understanding Insurance Terms
Understanding insurance terms is crucial when selecting a medical malpractice insurance policy.
Per Occurrence Limits
Per occurrence limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage provided for each individual claim.
Aggregate Limits
Aggregate limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage provided for all claims made during a policy period.
Policy Limits
Policy limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage provided under a medical malpractice insurance policy, including both per occurrence and aggregate limits.
Deductibles and Retentions
Deductibles and retentions refer to the amount of money that the healthcare provider is responsible for paying before the insurance coverage kicks in. A deductible is a set amount that must be paid before coverage begins, while a retention is a percentage of the total claim amount that the healthcare provider is responsible for paying.
Comparing Insurance Providers
Comparing insurance providers can help you find the right coverage for your practice.
Researching Insurance Providers
Researching insurance providers involves reviewing their reputation, financial stability, and customer service.
Evaluating Provider Ratings and Reviews
Evaluating provider ratings and reviews can provide valuable insight into the experiences of other healthcare providers who have used their services.
Obtaining Quotes and Coverage Information
Obtaining quotes and coverage information from multiple insurance providers can help you compare costs and coverage options.
Choosing the right medical malpractice insurance coverage requires careful consideration of your practice’s needs and risks, as well as a thorough understanding of insurance terms and providers. By taking the time to assess your needs, understand insurance terms, and compare providers, you can ensure that you have adequate coverage to protect your practice.
Case Studies: Real-Life Examples of Medical Malpractice Insurance Coverage
One effective way to help healthcare providers understand the importance of having adequate medical malpractice insurance coverage is to examine real-life examples of medical malpractice cases and how insurance coverage played a role in the outcome. By analyzing actual cases, readers can see the types of claims that can arise, the extent of the damages that can result, and how insurance coverage works in practice.
Case Study 1: Surgical Error
In a recent case, a surgeon performed a procedure on a patient that resulted in permanent nerve damage. The patient filed a lawsuit, claiming medical malpractice. The surgeon’s medical malpractice insurance policy had a per occurrence limit of $1 million and an aggregate limit of $3 million. The case went to trial, and the jury awarded the patient $2.5 million in damages. The surgeon’s insurance policy covered the full amount of the judgment, and the surgeon was responsible only for paying the deductible.
This case illustrates the importance of having adequate per occurrence and aggregate limits on a medical malpractice insurance policy. If the surgeon’s policy had a lower per occurrence limit or aggregate limit, the surgeon may have been responsible for paying a significant portion of the damages out of pocket.
Case Study 2: Cyber Attack
In another recent case, a healthcare provider experienced a cyber attack that resulted in the theft of patient data. The healthcare provider was sued by several patients, and the state attorney general also initiated an investigation. The healthcare provider’s medical malpractice insurance policy had a cyber liability coverage endorsement that provided coverage for data breaches and regulatory fines and penalties.
The insurance policy covered the costs of notifying affected patients, providing credit monitoring services, and paying regulatory fines and penalties. The healthcare provider was able to avoid significant financial losses due to the cyber attack, thanks to the insurance coverage provided by the policy.
Case Study 3: Misdiagnosis
In a third case, a physician misdiagnosed a patient’s condition, resulting in the patient’s death. The patient’s family filed a lawsuit, claiming medical malpractice. The physician’s medical malpractice insurance policy had a policy limit of $5 million.
The case went to trial, and the jury awarded the patient’s family $3 million in damages. The physician’s insurance policy covered the full amount of the judgment, but the policy limits were exhausted. The physician was responsible for paying the remaining $2 million out of pocket.
This case illustrates the importance of having adequate policy limits on a medical malpractice insurance policy. Healthcare providers should carefully evaluate their practice’s risks and needs to determine the appropriate policy limits for their practice.
By examining real-life examples of medical malpractice cases and how insurance coverage played a role in the outcome, healthcare providers can better understand the importance of having adequate coverage. Medical malpractice insurance can provide crucial financial protection in the event of a claim or lawsuit, and healthcare providers should carefully evaluate their coverage options to ensure that they have adequate protection for their practice.
Understanding Medical Malpractice Insurance Policy Limits
Medical malpractice insurance policy limits are an important aspect of understanding insurance coverage. Policy limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage provided under a medical malpractice insurance policy, including both per occurrence and aggregate limits. It’s crucial for healthcare providers to understand how policy limits work, how to determine the appropriate limit for their practice, and how to increase limits if needed.
How Policy Limits Work
Policy limits are the maximum amount of coverage provided under a medical malpractice insurance policy. Per occurrence limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage provided for each individual claim, while aggregate limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage provided for all claims made during a policy period.
For example, a medical malpractice insurance policy may have a per occurrence limit of $1 million and an aggregate limit of $3 million. This means that the policy will provide up to $1 million in coverage for each claim made, and up to a total of $3 million in coverage for all claims made during the policy period.
Determining the Appropriate Limit for Your Practice
Determining the appropriate limit for your practice involves assessing your practice’s risks and needs. Healthcare providers should review their practice history and evaluate their practice’s risks to determine the likelihood of a claim or lawsuit. They should also consider the potential damages that could result from a claim or lawsuit and the state requirements for medical malpractice insurance coverage.
Additionally, healthcare providers should consider their financial situation and the level of risk they are comfortable with. Higher policy limits can provide more comprehensive protection but come with higher premiums.
Increasing Policy Limits
Healthcare providers may need to increase their policy limits as their practice grows and their risks and liabilities increase. To increase policy limits, healthcare providers should contact their insurance provider and request a quote for higher limits. It’s important to note that increasing policy limits can result in higher premiums.
When increasing policy limits, healthcare providers should also review their deductible and retention amounts. A higher deductible or retention can help reduce premiums but will also increase the amount that the healthcare provider is responsible for paying out of pocket in the event of a claim or lawsuit.
Understanding medical malpractice insurance policy limits is essential for healthcare providers to ensure that they have adequate coverage to protect their practice. By assessing their practice’s risks and needs, healthcare providers can determine the appropriate policy limits and make informed decisions when selecting coverage.
Medical Malpractice Insurance Coverage for Specific Healthcare Specialties
Healthcare providers in different specialties face different risks and liabilities, which can affect the type of medical malpractice insurance coverage they need. Providing information on coverage options and considerations for different specialties can be helpful for readers who are looking for specialized coverage.
Coverage for Physicians
Physicians are at risk for a wide range of medical malpractice claims, including misdiagnosis, surgical errors, and medication errors. They may also face claims related to patient confidentiality and privacy violations. Medical malpractice insurance policies for physicians should provide coverage for these types of claims and have appropriate policy limits.
Coverage for Surgeons
Surgeons face unique risks and liabilities, as their procedures are often invasive and can result in serious injuries or complications. Medical malpractice insurance policies for surgeons should provide coverage for surgical errors, postoperative infections, and other complications related to surgery.
Coverage for Dentists
Dentists face claims related to dental procedures such as extractions, fillings, and root canals. They may also face claims related to anesthesia complications or patient confidentiality violations. Medical malpractice insurance policies for dentists should provide coverage for these types of claims and have appropriate policy limits.
Coverage for Nurses
Nurses may face claims related to medication errors, patient falls, and failure to monitor patients. They may also face claims related to patient confidentiality violations. Medical malpractice insurance policies for nurses should provide coverage for these types of claims and have appropriate policy limits.
Coverage for Mental Health Providers
Mental health providers face claims related to misdiagnosis, patient suicide, and inappropriate relationships with patients. Medical malpractice insurance policies for mental health providers should provide coverage for these types of claims and have appropriate policy limits.
Coverage for Allied Healthcare Providers
Allied healthcare providers, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and chiropractors, face claims related to patient injuries or complications resulting from treatment. Medical malpractice insurance policies for allied healthcare providers should provide coverage for these types of claims and have appropriate policy limits.
It’s important for healthcare providers to understand the unique risks and liabilities they face in their specific specialty and choose medical malpractice insurance coverage that provides appropriate protection. Healthcare providers should carefully review their coverage options and policy limits to ensure that they have adequate protection for their practice.
Trends and Developments in Medical Malpractice Insurance
The medical malpractice insurance industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and developments emerging all the time. Staying up-to-date on these developments can help healthcare providers make informed decisions when selecting coverage.
Telemedicine
The rise of telemedicine has led to new risks and liabilities for healthcare providers. Telemedicine providers may face claims related to misdiagnosis, inadequate informed consent, and technical difficulties that affect the quality of care provided. Medical malpractice insurance policies for telemedicine providers should provide coverage for these types of claims and have appropriate policy limits.
Cybersecurity
As healthcare providers rely more on technology to store patient data and other confidential information, cybersecurity risks have become a major concern. Medical malpractice insurance policies with cyber liability coverage can provide protection in the event of a data breach or cyber attack, including coverage for notification and credit monitoring costs, regulatory fines and penalties, and legal defense costs.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and arbitration, are becoming increasingly popular in medical malpractice cases. Medical malpractice insurance policies that provide coverage for these methods can help healthcare providers avoid costly and time-consuming trials.
Rising Costs
The cost of medical malpractice insurance has been on the rise in recent years. Healthcare providers may need to take steps to reduce their risks and liabilities, such as implementing risk management strategies and selecting policies with appropriate limits and deductibles.
State Regulations
State regulations related to medical malpractice insurance coverage are constantly changing, with some states implementing mandatory coverage requirements and others enacting tort reform laws that affect the amount of damages that can be awarded in medical malpractice cases. Healthcare providers should stay up-to-date on these developments to ensure that they are in compliance with state requirements.
Keeping up with trends and developments in the medical malpractice insurance industry is essential for healthcare providers to ensure that they have adequate coverage to protect their practice. By understanding the latest developments and changes in the industry, healthcare providers can make informed decisions when selecting coverage and take steps to minimize their risks and liabilities.
The Claims Process for Medical Malpractice Insurance
Medical malpractice claims can be complex and overwhelming for healthcare providers. Understanding the claims process and what to expect can help healthcare providers feel more confident in their coverage and be better prepared in the event of a claim.
Reporting the Claim
The first step in the claims process is to report the claim to the insurance provider as soon as possible. This allows the insurance provider to begin the investigation process and start gathering necessary information.
Investigation and Legal Defense
Once the claim has been reported, the insurance provider will conduct an investigation to gather information and assess the validity of the claim. This may involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and consulting with experts in the field. If the claim proceeds to a lawsuit, the insurance provider will provide legal defense and cover the costs of hiring an attorney.
Settlement Negotiation
If the insurance provider determines that the claim is valid, they will negotiate a settlement with the claimant. The settlement amount will depend on the damages claimed, the policy limits, and the extent of the healthcare provider’s liability.
Litigation
If the claim cannot be resolved through settlement negotiations, it may proceed to litigation. The insurance provider will provide legal defense and cover the costs of the trial, including expert witness fees, court fees, and attorney fees.
Payment of Damages
If the healthcare provider is found liable, the insurance provider will cover the damages awarded up to the policy limits. The healthcare provider may be responsible for paying any damages above the policy limits.
Understanding the claims process is essential for healthcare providers to feel confident in their medical malpractice insurance coverage. Healthcare providers should carefully review their policy to understand what is covered and what their responsibilities are in the event of a claim. By being prepared and informed, healthcare providers can minimize the impact of a medical malpractice claim on their practice and ensure that they have the protection they need to continue providing quality care to their patients.
Risk Management Strategies for Medical Malpractice Insurance
In addition to having adequate medical malpractice insurance coverage, healthcare providers can take steps to minimize their risks and liabilities. By implementing risk management strategies and best practices, healthcare providers can reduce their exposure to potential claims and lawsuits.
Communication
Effective communication is essential in minimizing the risk of medical malpractice claims. Healthcare providers should ensure that patients understand the risks and benefits of treatment and provide clear and concise information about their diagnosis and treatment plan. They should also encourage patients to ask questions and address any concerns they may have.
Documentation
Accurate and complete documentation is crucial in minimizing the risk of medical malpractice claims. Healthcare providers should ensure that their documentation is thorough and includes all relevant information, such as patient history, diagnosis, treatment plan, and any complications or adverse reactions.
Continuing Education and Training
Continuing education and training can help healthcare providers stay up-to-date on the latest developments and best practices in their field. This can include attending conferences and seminars, participating in online training courses, and engaging in peer review and quality improvement programs.
Implementing Policies and Procedures
Having clear and comprehensive policies and procedures can help healthcare providers minimize the risk of medical malpractice claims. Policies and procedures should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that they are in compliance with current regulations and best practices.
Implementing Quality Improvement Programs
Quality improvement programs can help healthcare providers identify areas for improvement and take steps to reduce the risk of medical malpractice claims. This can include conducting regular audits of documentation and processes, soliciting feedback from patients, and implementing changes based on feedback and data analysis.
By implementing risk management strategies and best practices, healthcare providers can reduce their exposure to potential claims and lawsuits. In addition to providing adequate medical malpractice insurance coverage, healthcare providers should take proactive steps to ensure that they are providing quality care to their patients and minimizing the risk of medical malpractice claims.
Choosing the Right Medical Malpractice Insurance Coverage: A Critical Decision for Healthcare Providers
Medical malpractice insurance is a critical form of protection for healthcare providers. It provides coverage for a wide range of incidents, including medical negligence claims, bodily injury claims, property damage claims, and cyber attacks. In addition to understanding what medical malpractice insurance covers, it’s also important to understand the limits and exclusions of your policy and how to choose the right coverage for your practice.
When selecting medical malpractice insurance coverage, healthcare providers should assess their needs, understand insurance terms, and compare insurance providers. Assessing your needs involves reviewing your practice history, evaluating your practice’s risks, and considering state requirements. Understanding insurance terms such as per occurrence limits, aggregate limits, policy limits, and deductibles and retentions can help you select the right coverage for your practice. Comparing insurance providers involves researching their reputation, financial stability, and customer service, as well as obtaining quotes and coverage information.
By selecting the right medical malpractice insurance coverage, healthcare providers can protect their practice from financial losses due to lawsuits and claims related to medical malpractice. While medical malpractice insurance can be a significant expense for healthcare providers, the cost of not having insurance can be much greater. Healthcare providers should carefully review their insurance options and choose the policy that provides the best protection for their practice.
In conclusion, medical malpractice insurance coverage is an essential investment for healthcare providers. By understanding what medical malpractice insurance covers, the limits and exclusions of the policy, and how to choose the right coverage, healthcare providers can protect their practice from financial losses due to lawsuits and claims related to medical malpractice.