What do I need to know about professional liability insurance for occupational therapy practitioners?

On average, malpractice lawsuits against occupational therapists can exceed $60,000 in legal defense costs alone, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive coverage.

Many occupational therapists are not fully protected under their employer's insurance policies, leaving them personally vulnerable to financial liabilities from potential lawsuits.

Professional liability insurance for occupational therapists often covers a wide range of incidents, including allegations of negligence, errors and omissions, and personal injuries sustained by clients.

Insurers like The Hartford emphasize the importance of having a policy that not only assists with legal defense but also fills gaps in employer coverage to ensure complete protection.

Shared limits in liability insurance policies can decrease an individual occupational therapist's coverage and increase their personal financial responsibility, making sole coverage essential.

Companies such as CM&F offer specialized professional liability plans for occupational therapists that accommodate diverse care delivery methods, including telehealth services.

Securing professional liability insurance is particularly crucial for self-employed occupational therapists, as they face increased risks and personal liability compared to those working for an organization.

Providers like Insureon offer a platform for occupational therapists to obtain quotes from multiple leading insurers, simplifying the process of finding suitable coverage that fits their budget.

The Hartford highlights that a professional liability policy can help protect an occupational therapist's license, as it covers the legal costs associated with complaints filed against them with licensing agencies.

HPSO emphasizes the importance of having a policy with individual, non-shared limits, as this ensures full coverage for each occupational therapist without dilution from the claims of others.

Occupational therapy is a hands-on profession with direct client interaction, which can lead to a higher risk of claims and the need for robust professional liability protection.

Proliability, a leading provider of occupational therapy liability insurance, offers tailored coverage options that address the unique risks faced by these healthcare professionals.