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Before you buy or renew your policy, here’s what every nurse practitioner should know to stay protected and confident in their career.
Not All Malpractice Policies Are the Same
It’s common for NPs to assume that their employer’s malpractice coverage is enough. In reality, employer-provided insurance protects the facility first, not you personally.
This means that in a lawsuit, your employer’s attorney may be focused on protecting the company instead of you.
Why It Matters
An individual malpractice policy follows you wherever you practice, whether you’re full-time, part-time, or do contract work, and ensures you have your own defense team and financial protection.
Understand “Claims-Made” vs “Occurrence-Based” Coverage
The type of policy you buy determines when coverage applies.
- Claims-made: Covers incidents only if both the event and the claim occur while the policy is active. If you leave a job or switch insurers, you’ll need tail coverage for future claims.
- Occurrence-based: Covers incidents that happened during the policy period, even if a claim surfaces years later; no tail insurance needed.
Example: If a patient you treated in 2023 files a lawsuit in 2025, an occurrence-based policy from 2023 still protects you.
Review What’s Covered and What’s Missing
A strong nurse practitioner malpractice policy should include more than lawsuit protection. Look for additional benefits like:
- License protection: Covers legal defense if a complaint is filed with your state nursing board.
- HIPAA violation defense: Helps cover legal costs for unintentional privacy breaches.
- Deposition representation: Pays legal fees if you’re subpoenaed for testimony.
- Assault benefits: Provides coverage if you’re injured while performing professional duties.
- Good Samaritan coverage: Protects you for volunteer or emergency care outside your normal role.
Pro Tip: Check your coverage limits. $1M per claim / $3M aggregate is typical for NPs. Ask your broker what’s standard for your specialty and state.
Match Coverage to How and Where You Practice
Your professional setting affects your exposure, and your insurance should match it.
- Independent or telehealth NPs: Confirm your policy includes virtual care and interstate protection.
- Multi-state providers: Some policies are state-specific. Check for coverage in every state you’re licensed.
- Part-time or per diem NPs: Ask about discounted or prorated rates.
Even if you’re covered by your employer, you might not be insured for volunteer work, moonlighting, or consulting.
Choose a Broker Who Specializes in Healthcare
The right policy starts with the right partner. A broker who understands healthcare can compare multiple carriers, explain coverage differences, and tailor protection to your role and risk level.
At Leavitt Select Insurance, we help nurse practitioners and advanced practice clinicians find coverage that fits, from malpractice and business insurance to professional liability.
Reassess Your Coverage Regularly
As your career evolves, your insurance policy should too. Review your coverage whenever you:
- Change jobs or start an independent practice
- Add telehealth or supervisory duties
- Move to a new state
- Renew your license or form an LLC
Even small changes can impact your risk profile and coverage needs.
Final Thoughts
Buying malpractice insurance isn’t just a professional requirement; it’s an act of self-protection. The right coverage ensures that your dedication to patient care never puts your career or finances in jeopardy.
Whether you’re just starting your NP career or leading your own practice, take time to understand your options and partner with a trusted healthcare insurance advisor.
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