Why surgeons require medical indemnity insurance

Surgical specialities differ enormously. It is therefore not surprising that medical indemnity insurance should vary too so that it reflects the different risks. There are some one-size-fits-all insurance policies for surgeons. However, in order to ensure they meet the specific risks associated with particular operations; they often have to be amended accordingly. It means you could end up with a policy that doesn't reflect precisely what you need.

Medical indemnity insurance covers all type of surgical procedures

The various standard types of medical indemnity insurance cover all branches of surgery, including Bariatrics, Cardiovascular, Cosmetic, ENT, and Orthopaedic. They also cover the field of anaesthetics. Surgeons strive hard to deliver top-quality healthcare, but with the best intentions and will in the world, things can still go wrong. It doesn't matter how well-trained and experienced surgeons are, mistakes happen. When they do, they can have serious financial consequences for the operating surgeon.

Medical indemnity insurance and the NHS

According to GMC, if a surgeon is employed by an NHS Trust or board, or the HSC, he or she will be covered by a clinical negligence scheme operated by the organisation. It should be noted though that if you currently work for the NHS/HSC only, there is no statutory requirement for you to purchase your own medical indemnity insurance.

Does the NHS clinical negligence scheme cover everything?

As a surgeon, you should research whether or not you need to apply for additional professional insurance or indemnity for anything your existing policy does not cover. Bear in mind that if you treat NHS patients privately, you are strongly advised to talk to the NHS about exactly what indemnity is in place. Those who are not covered may be subject to a medical negligence claim made against them. Although you may be covered under Crown Indemnity against clinical negligence, that cover may not extend to any GMC disciplinary hearings you may have to attend.

The need for medical indemnity insurance in independent practices

Surgeons who have independent practices (and this includes medico-legal work) have to have adequate insurance/indemnity in place. Take note that this also applies when an independent procedure is carried on NHS/HSC premises.

Make sure there are no grey areas

As a professional surgeon, you cannot afford any grey areas with regard to your medical indemnity insurance. If you are in any doubt, you are strongly recommended to visit the Incision Indemnity website and check out what they have to say. For more information call their medico-legal advice team today on 0333 010 2826.