Why ask about the policy form?
According to the NAIC, claims-made and occurrence policies respond differently after a policy ends, which affects whether you need tail or extended reporting coverage.
Questions to ask about malpractice coverage in a locums or per diem offer
Before you accept a locums or per diem offer, ask in writing how your malpractice coverage works. These questions cover the policy form, tail responsibility, who is insured, and where the coverage applies.
Questions to ask in writing
- Is the policy claims-made or occurrence?
- If it is claims-made, who is responsible for tail or extended reporting coverage when the assignment ends, and who pays for it?
- Who is the named insured on the policy, and am I listed?
- Which facilities does the coverage apply to?
- Which states does the coverage apply to?
- For NPs and PAs: am I covered under a facility policy or an individual policy?
- Can I get a written copy or certificate of the coverage before I start?
For background, see claims-made vs occurrence.
Related checklists
Use the physician offer checklist or the NP and PA offer checklist, and check state requirements under licensing by state.
Sources
General information, not legal or insurance advice. Confirm details with the carrier, the state board, or DEA as relevant.
Frequently asked questions
Should NPs and PAs ask anything different?
Ask whether you are covered under a facility policy or an individual policy.
Why get answers in writing?
A written answer lets you confirm who buys the coverage, who is insured, and where it applies before you start.