While practicing medicine, it is essential that medical professionals maintain adequate insurance coverage. Doctors and physicians are able to purchase professional liability insurance (PLI). Many medical professionals believe PLI coverage defends them while engaging in hazardous endeavors by making indemnity payments and defending them against claims of wrongdoing. Unfortunately, this is far from the truth.
The frequency of medical negligence claims makes it imperative that medical professionals maintain a reliable PLI. Few physicians actually give it much thought until they face the threat of disciplinary proceedings. Medical professionals face the possibility of steep fines, license sanctions, and even the possible termination of their ability to practice.
With consequences stacking, it is important for physicians to realize the benefits of having a PLI in place. Having some knowledge while selecting a policy can help you select the best coverage imaginable. It is crucial to take various factors into consideration when selecting a policy.
Does the PLI Cover Administrative Proceedings?
It is important to understand that legal service coverage for administrative proceedings is not universal. Given the fact that State Boards are becoming more aggressive with investigating medical care providers, it is crucial to verify that your policy will cover legal services should you be subjected to one of these investigations. Read over the specifications of your policy to determine what coverage is included. If your employer purchased the PLI policy, ask for a copy.
If My PLI Covers Administrative Proceedings, Should I Still worry?
It is important to review the specifics of your coverage. You will need to make sure you have sufficient coverage available to protect your professional license. It is equally important that you understand the limits of your coverage. Having insufficient coverage could leave you on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars in legal expenses and fees.
What Should My Administrative Proceedings Coverage Include?
It is imperative that you have a policy that adequately covers all anticipated costs and expenses related to administrative proceedings. A minimum of up to $25,000 in coverage for expenses, fines, and legal fees should be indemnified within the policy. Furthermore, it is imperative that the policy provides coverage for complaints, investigations, and administrative hearings that may be filed or opened against you.
What Should I Do If My Policy Does Not Cover Administrative Proceedings?
If you discover that your PLI does not provide any coverage for administrative proceedings, there are a few things you can do. If your policy is through an employer, you may consider purchasing your own PLI policy so you can control what coverage you have. Another option you have is to identify and retain a qualified attorney who is readily available to help you should you become subject to an administrative hearing.
Healthcare Fraud Group Can Help You
The team at Healthcare Fraud Group understands the importance of proving your innocence after being subjected to an administrative hearing. A conviction resulting from an investigation can result in fines, suspension of licenses, and a plethora of other negative consequences. If you were accused of a crime or of similar forms of healthcare fraud, contact our defense attorneys at (888) 402-4054to discuss your case as soon as possible.
