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Physician Contract Glossary · Malpractice & Insurance

Self-Insurance Coverage

Self-insurance coverage is malpractice protection a large system funds itself rather than buying from an outside carrier.

Some large hospitals and systems self-insure: they set aside their own funds to pay malpractice claims instead of buying a commercial policy. For you, the key questions are whether the self-insured plan provides the equivalent of tail coverage when you leave and whether the system is financially sound enough to pay claims. Self-insured plans do not always include portable tail protection.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

If the employer self-insures, get written confirmation of how departing physicians are covered for prior incidents. A self-insured plan with no tail equivalent can leave you exposed for past care once you leave.

Related terms

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