All About Medical Malpractice – Tail-Coverage: What to Know

Medical malpractice tail coverage is an important form of insurance for medical professionals, as it provides protection beyond the scope of a typical claims-made policy. This type of coverage kicks in when a patient files a claim after a medical professional has changed insurance plans or left a practice.

How Do Tail Insurance Coverages Work?

When a medical professional changes insurance plans or leaves a practice, they may be liable for any claims that arise from their prior professional services. This is why tail insurance coverage is so important. It provides a financial cushion in the event that a patient files a claim against the medical professional after they have changed insurance plans or left a practice.

Tail insurance coverage is typically offered as an endorsement of a medical professional’s existing malpractice insurance policy. This endorsement extends the coverage period beyond the date of the policy expiration. This type of coverage is usually offered for a set period of time, typically a few years, and can be renewed as needed.

How Much Does a Tail Coverage Cost?

When shopping for tail malpractice insurance, it’s important to understand the rates associated with this type of coverage. Rates for tail coverage can vary significantly, depending on the provider and the type of coverage that is purchased. 

Generally, rates for tail coverage are 1.5 to 2 times your current annual premium. This means that if you’re paying an annual premium of $10,000 for your malpractice insurance, you can expect to pay anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000 for your tail coverage.

Do Health Providers Need Tail Coverage?

Tail coverage is an important form of protection for healthcare providers because it provides them with coverage for claims that may arise after the expiration of their policy. This type of coverage is especially important for healthcare providers who may have a higher risk of malpractice claims due to their profession. 

For example, surgeons, emergency room physicians, and other medical professionals who are exposed to high-risk situations may be more likely to face malpractice claims than those in less-risky professions. Tail coverage can provide the necessary protection for these medical professionals in the event of a claim.

When Do You Need Tail Coverage?

Tail coverage is typically purchased when a medical professional is transitioning from one policy to another. It is also important to purchase tail coverage when a medical professional is retiring or changing their practice. In these cases, a medical professional may be exposed to claims that arise after the policy expires or is canceled.

Will Tail Coverage Apply to Your Medical Malpractice Claim?

In Kentucky, a medical malpractice claim may involve tail coverage if the incident happened more than a few days or weeks ago, the defendant has tail coverage, the act was committed during the original policy period, and the lawsuit is filed within the deadline.

The Bottom Line: Dealing with Tail Coverage in Medical Malpractice Claims

Tail coverage can be a complex and confusing issue for victims of medical malpractice. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, victims can be better equipped to deal with tail coverage in medical malpractice claims and pursue the compensation they deserve. Of course, you need a medical malpractice attorney in Kentucky to help you navigate it all. 

At Circeo Law Firm, we understand the complexities of medical malpractice litigation and have the experience and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured due to medical malpractice in Kentucky, contact the trusted attorneys at Circeo Law Firm today.