Physician Assistant Liability Coverage: What You Need to Consider

With the growing demand for skilled physician’s assistants (PAs), comprehensive malpractice insurance has become more important than ever. Similar to physicians, PAs require liability insurance to protect against malpractice claims. But, unlike physician coverage, physician’s assistance medical malpractice policies have unique considerations including specialized rate structures, policy nuances, and specific tail coverage requirements that directly impact your professional risk management.

Key Facts About Physician Assistant Liability Coverage

• Policy Options: Physician assistants, like physicians, can sometimes choose between claims-made and occurrence policies, but claims-made policies remain the common. Claims-made policies cover claims reported while the policy is active, whereas occurrence policies cover any incident that occurred during the policy period, regardless of when the claim is filed.
• Costs: Liability coverage for physician assistants is generally more affordable than coverage for physicians. In recent years, claims-made policies for PAs range from $900-$3,500 per year, while occurrence policies range from $2,000-$6,000 per year, depending on factors like specialty, location and which insurance company you secure coverage from..
• Policy Renewal and Increases: Claims-made PA liability policies tend to have modest year-over-year premium increases, typically between 10-20%, as opposed to the higher 25-75% increases often seen with physician policies.
• Tail Coverage: For PAs with claims-made policies, tail coverage is typically required to cover claims made after a policy ends. Tail premiums usually cost about 1.5-2 times the expiring premium and provide coverage for claims reported after a PA leaves a position or retires. Currently, most PA’s get the best price from the insurance company their claims-made policy is with. 

Typical Requirements for PA Liability Insurance Applications

Physician assistants seeking immediate coverage or preparing to renew their policy can speed up the application process by having the following documentation ready:

1. Completed application form
2. Current state license
3. Copy of the expiring policy’s declarations page
4. Complete loss history and claims information
5. Position description that includes details of practice responsibilities, any supervising physicians, and any anticipated changes to responsibilities

Common Questions Physician Assistants Have About Liability Coverage

• How is PA liability insurance different from physician insurance?
  While PA and physician liability coverage options are similar, PA policies are generally more affordable and don’t increase as dramatically year-over-year. Additionally, the risks associated with PA work are often rated differently, leading to lower premiums.
• What’s the difference between claims-made and occurrence policies?
  A claims-made policy provides coverage only if the policy is active when the claim is filed, whereas an occurrence policy covers incidents that happened during the policy period, even if the claim is filed later. Occurrence policies are typically more expensive, but they do not require tail coverage.
• How much does tail coverage cost for PAs?
  Tail coverage for a PA typically costs 1.5-2 times the expiring premium, which is essential for covering claims reported after the policy has ended.
• Are there special considerations for PAs with past claims?
  Yes, having previous claims can impact a PA’s ability to secure affordable coverage. However, a specialty broker can help minimize premium increases by finding the most accommodating insurer and advising on strategies to reduce future risk.

Choosing the Right PA Liability Coverage

Proactively securing appropriate malpractice insurance demonstrates professional responsibility and provides peace of mind. With multiple liability insurance companies offering PA coverage nationwide, it’s essential to choose a provider with a strong financial rating and responsive support. 

Partnering with a firm specializing in medical malpractice insurance, like Cunningham Group, ensures that PAs have access to top-rated insurers, a seamless application process, and the best rates available. Whether you need a new policy or are seeking to renew, our team is here to help you secure the right coverage for your needs. Reach out to Cunningham Group today to get free, no-obligation quotes for your malpractice insurance coverage. We can help you find the best policy for your needs, budget, and career stage.

*This article has been updated with new information