Choosing the Right Malpractice Insurance

Appropriate malpractice insurance is an essential component of professional practice for CRNAs and nurse anesthesiologists. Understanding how coverage works—and how policies differ—can help you make informed decisions that protect your career, reputation, and financial well-being.

While many CRNAs receive malpractice coverage through their employer, it is important not to assume that employer-provided insurance fully protects your individual interests. Reviewing policy details and considering supplemental coverage can help ensure comprehensive protection.

What Is Malpractice Insurance?

Medical malpractice insurance is a form of professional liability coverage that protects against allegations of negligence or omission resulting in patient injury or death. Coverage requirements vary by state, but malpractice insurance is required in most practice settings.

How Malpractice Insurance Works

Malpractice insurance provides financial protection against claims and lawsuits arising from professional services rendered to patients. Coverage helps pay for legal defense, settlements, or judgments, subject to policy limits.

Elements of a Medical Malpractice Claim

For a malpractice claim to proceed, the following elements must typically be established: a breach of the standard of care, an injury caused by that breach, and resulting damages.

Types of Malpractice Insurance Policies

The two primary types of malpractice insurance are occurrence and claims-made policies. Understanding the differences between these options is critical when selecting coverage.

Occurrence Policies

• Occurrence policies cover incidents that occur during the policy period, even if a claim is filed after coverage ends. These policies do not require tail coverage and provide long-term peace of mind.

Claims-Made Policies

• Claims-made policies require that both the incident and the claim occur while the policy is active. When coverage ends, tail coverage may be required to protect against future claims related to past services.

Tail Coverage Considerations

Tail coverage can be costly and is a critical component of claims-made policies. Planning ahead and understanding who is responsible for tail coverage can help avoid unexpected expenses.

Why Many CRNAs Choose Occurrence Coverage

Occurrence coverage eliminates the need for tail coverage and provides permanent protection for incidents that occurred while the policy was in force.

Choosing the Right Insurance Partner

When selecting a malpractice insurer, it is important to consider financial strength, experience with CRNA malpractice coverage, and the availability of risk management and legal support.

AANA Insurance Services has specialized in malpractice insurance for CRNAs and nurse anesthesiologists for more than three decades, offering coverage options designed to support diverse practice settings and career stages.