Physicians should be aware of the parts of a medical professional liability insurance policy. The policy should be carefully read so as to avoid coverage disputes. Although policies, language and definition of terms vary some examples can be provided that typically are part of most policies. A typical policy would contain the following sections:

The ‘schedule of declarations’ typically summarizes basic information concerning the insurance provided in a policy. It typically includes the name and address of the insured, the policy period, the limits of liability and the retroactive date and the premium amount.

 

Insuring agreements

Each policy typically outlines the specifics of coverage afforded. The specific name of the physician insured should be in the policy language. If the physician is a member of a group insured, then the policy should clearly state that each physician working with the group through contract or employment is covered while providing professional services. It is appropriate to ask for a certificate of insurance to be issued for each physician.