More options available even while insurers brace for uncertainty
By Shawna Bertalot, CIC, ACI, President WisMed Assure
A recently published report by A.M. Best says medical professional liability (MPL) insurance providers continue to experience decreased profitability. The rating firm is maintaining its negative rating for the segment and reports a growing amount of uncertainty due to potential increases in claims coupled with premium refunds, both stemming from the COVID crisis.
Even before COVID-19 swept through the country, the market was hardening – which means premiums were on the rise and terms and conditions were become more stringent. (See September 2019 Antidote Article “History Repeats Itself”)
While insurance companies continue to assess what their products cover and the cost of coverage, governments are introducing new laws that can directly and indirectly impact risk and insurance. It is a constantly evolving situation which we are closely monitoring.
To better serve the medical profession, our team has sought out alternative carriers and products to ensure you have the greatest amount of choice possible. Some of the new options we provide are directly related to the changes care givers have had to make due to the coronavirus. (E.g.: Retired physicians returning to work have new options. Physicians who have increased their telemedicine activity have new options.)
Exploring Options: What to Look For
When choosing an MPL insurance policy, or when replacing or updating your existing policy, it is easy to put too much focus on premium costs. That is certainly understandable, but it is not the only criteria you should be basing your decision on. The most important thing to focus on is choosing the broadest coverage with a financially strong insurance carrier dedicated to the MPL market and excellent track record in claims handling.
Your Best Bet
To get what you need, and feel confident about the decisions you make, your best bet is to work with an experienced insurance advisor. The WisMed Assure advisory team has many decades of experience and a commitment to be your financial partner for life. We know your world because we only serve physicians and medical professionals. Plus, we are in it for the long haul as our profits contribute to The Wisconsin Medical Society’s ability to fulfill its mission: To improve the health of the people of Wisconsin by supporting and strengthening physicians’ ability to practice high-quality patient care in a changing environment.
If you have questions, want to learn more, or concerns to address, contact WisMed Assure today.
shawna.bertalot@wismedassure.org
608.442.3738
Shawna Bertalot is the president of the WisMed Assure agency. With her strong leadership skills and knowledge of the industry, our skilled team of agents are motivated and well prepared to find solutions for our clients.