1. Is professional indemnity insurance mandatory for doctors in India?

• • While it’s not legally mandated, having professional indemnity insurance is highly advisable for doctors. It provides financial protection against legal claims arising from medical negligence or errors. Many hospitals and institutions also require doctors to carry this insurance to ensure patient safety and risk management

2. What are the benefits of having professional indemnity insurance for doctors?

• • • Financial Protection: Indemnity insurance covers legal expenses, settlement costs, and compensation in case of claims related to medical malpractice.
    • Risk Mitigation: It safeguards your professional reputation and allows you to focus on patient care without constant worry about legal repercussions.
    • Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have insurance in place gives you confidence in your practice1.

3. How is the premium for professional indemnity insurance for doctors calculated?

• • • Premiums depend on factors such as your specialty, experience, location, and coverage limits. Generally, higher-risk specialties (e.g., surgeons) may have higher premiums. It’s essential to work get a tailor-made coverage to your specific needs.

4. What should doctors look for when selecting a professional indemnity insurance policy?

• • • • Adequate Coverage: Ensure the policy covers your practice adequately, including defense costs, settlements, and legal representation.
      • Tail Coverage: Look for “tail” or “run-off” coverage, which extends protection even after retirement or policy cancellation.
      • Claims Process: Understand how claims are handled and the responsiveness of the insurer.
      • Insurer Reputation: Choose a reputable insurance provider with experience in medical indemnity

5. Who should take a doctor’s professional indemnity policy?

1. • Healthcare professionals who should seriously consider indemnity insurance for doctors include:

• Medical graduates serving as resident doctors.
• Active medical practitioners.
• Specialists in specific fields.
• Those employed in hospitals or managing their own practices.

6. What is the 1:1 coverage ratio in Indemnity policy? & how many “counts” of claims are allowed in 1:1, 1:2, 1:3 & 1:4 limits mentioned as AOA: AOY?

1. 1. • AOA: AOY means Any One Accident: Any One Year.
      • AOA = damages due to bodily injury or death inclusive of defence costs and covers all claims made arising out of AOA.
      • AOY = the maximum liability under the policy for that policy period.

7. In case a doctor or hospital holds multiple policies of indemnity, how to claim? What will be the scenario of claim management in case of multiple policies.

In such cases a contribution clause of insurance is applied, which triggers all policy as per ratio of your coverage amount in each policy to claim amount.