As a Physician Assistant (PA), your focus is on providing excellent patient care, but like any healthcare professional, there’s always the possibility of facing legal claims related to your work. That’s where malpractice insurance comes in. While many PAs are covered under their employer’s policy, having your own malpractice insurance can offer critical protection in today’s litigious environment. ‍

Access Plus Health supports PAs by offering guidance on navigating insurance needs and ensuring compliance. With Access Plus Health, PAs can gain insights on structuring their practice arrangements to minimize risk, allowing them to focus on patient care with peace of mind. Whether you’re a PA working independently, in collaboration, or with telehealth, understanding your malpractice insurance options is essential. Access Plus Health is here to help you assess your needs and support a secure, compliant practice.

In this guide, we’ll break down why malpractice insurance is essential for PAs, what it covers, and how to choose the right policy to safeguard your career. 

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1. What Is Malpractice Insurance for PAs? 

Malpractice insurance, also known as professional liability insurance, protects PAs from financial loss in the event of a lawsuit or claim alleging medical errors, negligence, or omissions in patient care. It covers legal fees, settlements, and court costs, which can quickly add up in the event of a claim. 

Key Coverage Areas: 

• Defense Costs: Covers legal fees, even if the claim is found to be baseless. 
• Settlements and Judgments: If you are found liable, the policy helps cover the cost of settlements or court-ordered judgments. 
• License Defense: Some policies also help cover the costs of defending your professional license in disciplinary actions. 

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2. Do PAs Really Need Malpractice Insurance? 

While malpractice lawsuits against PAs are less common compared to physicians, they do happen. As healthcare laws and patient expectations evolve, the risk of being named in a malpractice suit increases. Here’s why having your own policy is a smart move: 

Reasons to Get Your Own Insurance: 

• Gaps in Employer Coverage: Many PAs are covered under their employer’s malpractice insurance, but these policies often prioritize protecting the institution, not the individual. Your personal legal interests may not always align with your employer’s. 
• Portability: If you switch jobs, leave a position, or practice in multiple states, having your own policy ensures continuous coverage regardless of employment status. 
• Independent Practice: In states where PAs have full practice authority or work in settings that allow more autonomy, personal malpractice insurance is crucial for protecting your professional standing. 

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3. Types of Malpractice Insurance for PAs

There are two main types of malpractice insurance policies that PAs can choose from: 

• Claims-Made Policies: These policies only cover claims filed while the policy is active. If you cancel the policy or switch providers, you may need “tail coverage” to protect yourself from future claims related to past incidents. 
• Occurrence Policies: These policies cover incidents that occur during the policy period, even if the claim is filed after the policy ends. While more expensive, occurrence policies offer long-term protection without needing additional tail coverage. 

Which Is Right for You? 

• Claims-Made: Often more affordable and common for employed PAs. However, you’ll need to purchase tail coverage if you leave the job or switch policies. 
• Occurrence: More expensive but ideal for those who want comprehensive, long-lasting protection without worrying about future claims. 

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4. What to Look for in a Policy 

When shopping for malpractice insurance, it’s important to ensure your policy fits your specific needs. Here’s what to consider: 

• Coverage Limits: Understand both the per-claim and aggregate limits. Most PAs opt for coverage amounts of $1 million per claim and $3 million aggregate, though your needs may vary depending on your specialty. 
• Tail Coverage: If you’re considering a claims-made policy, check the cost of tail coverage or see if it’s included. 
• Legal Defense Costs: Make sure the policy covers legal fees in addition to settlements, as defense costs can be substantial. 
• License Protection: If your practice or care decisions come under scrutiny by state licensing boards, some policies will help cover the cost of legal defense for your license. 

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5. How Much Does Malpractice Insurance Cost for PAs? 

The cost of malpractice insurance for PAs varies depending on factors such as your specialty, location, and whether you choose a claims-made or occurrence policy. On average, PAs can expect to pay between $500 and $2,500 annually for coverage. 

Factors Influencing Cost: 

• Specialty: PAs in high-risk fields like surgery or emergency medicine typically face higher premiums. 
• Location: States with higher malpractice claims rates can lead to higher premiums. 
• Coverage Limits: Higher limits of liability will naturally result in higher premiums.

While not all PAs are required to carry their own malpractice insurance, having a personal policy offers peace of mind and crucial protection for your career. With evolving healthcare regulations and the growing responsibility placed on PAs, securing your own coverage ensures that you’re fully protected, regardless of where you work or what type of care you provide. 

If you’re a PA, it’s worth taking the time to review your malpractice insurance options and ensure you have the right protection in place. After all, safeguarding your career is just as important as safeguarding your patients’ health.