Malpractice Insurance Basics
By MedXL Editorial Team · Updated 2026-08-26 · 6 min read
Malpractice coverage is one of those subjects most physicians learn about only when a contract lands on their desk or a claim letter arrives. Yet the difference between two policy types, or one missing sentence about tail coverage, can amount to a very large personal expense. This article explains the core concepts in plain English so you can read a policy summary, ask sharp questions of an employer or broker, and know when to bring in a professional.
A necessary disclaimer up front: insurance products, protection organizations, and legal requirements differ by state, province, specialty, and employer, and they change over time. Use this as an orientation, and confirm specifics with a licensed insurance broker, your employer's risk management office, or a lawyer before making decisions.
Medical professional liability coverage, commonly called malpractice insurance, responds when a patient alleges that your care caused harm. In broad terms, a policy or protection arrangement typically provides:
In this guide
- What malpractice insurance actually covers
- Occurrence vs claims-made: the distinction that drives everything
- Tail and nose coverage
- How coverage works in Canada
- Reading the numbers: limits, deductibles, and consent
- Questions to ask before you sign anything
- When to get professional help
- Key takeaways