Dermatologist Insurance

Yes, dermatologists can be sued for malpractice, just like any other medical professional. While dermatology is often perceived as a lower-risk speciality compared to fields like surgery or obstetrics, the potential for malpractice claims still exists. Some common reasons for dermatology malpractice suits include:

• Missed or delayed diagnosis of skin cancer
• Complications from cosmetic procedures
• Adverse reactions to prescribed medications
• Errors in performing surgical procedures, such as Mohs surgery
• Failure to obtain proper informed consent
• Breach of patient confidentiality

However, not all adverse outcomes result in successful malpractice claims. For a claim to be valid, it must be proven that the dermatologist’s care fell below the accepted standard and directly harmed the patient.

While dermatologists face a variety of potential malpractice claims, some are more common than others. Here’s a breakdown of frequent claims:

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis of Skin Cancer

This is one of the most serious and common claims against dermatologists. Failing to identify melanoma or other skin cancers in a timely manner can have life-threatening consequences for patients.

Complications from Cosmetic Procedures

With the growing popularity of aesthetic treatments, claims related to botched cosmetic procedures are on the rise. These can include issues with dermal fillers, chemical peels, or laser treatments.

Medication Errors

Prescribing the wrong medication or dosage, or failing to account for drug interactions, can lead to serious adverse effects and subsequent malpractice claims.

Surgical Errors

Complications arising from procedures like mole removal, cyst excision, or Mohs surgery can result in claims, especially if they lead to scarring or infection.

Informed Consent Issues

Failing to adequately explain a procedure’s risks and potential outcomes can lead to claims, even if you performed the procedure itself correctly.

Confidentiality Breaches

In the age of electronic health records, claims related to unauthorised disclosure of patient information are becoming more common.

Failure to Make Referrals

Not referring a patient to a specialist when necessary, particularly in cases of suspected skin cancer, can result in malpractice claims.

There are a variety of factors that influence the cost of dermatologist malpractice insurance. Insurers consider:

• Your specific area of practice within dermatology
• The procedures you perform (cosmetic procedures often increase premiums)
• Your claims history
• Your years of experience
• Your location
• The amount of cover you choose

Given these variables, it’s difficult to provide a one-size-fits-all cost estimate. At Jensten, we aim to provide a wide range of rates for our clients. We also offer flexible payment options to help manage the cost of your cover.

In some cases, dermatologists working in group practices or hospitals may have some malpractice cover provided by their employer. However, you need to understand the specifics of this cover:

• Cover limits – Employer-provided insurance may have lower limits than what you need for extensive protection.
• Tail cover – If you leave the practice, you may not be covered for claims made after departing for incidents during your employment.
• Scope of cover – The policy may not cover all aspects of your practice, particularly if you do any work outside of your primary employment.
• Personal asset protection – Employer policies primarily protect the practice, not necessarily your personal assets.

For these reasons, many dermatologists maintain their own malpractice insurance policies in addition to any cover provided by their employer. This ensures extensive protection tailored to their specific needs.

Selecting the right malpractice insurance policy is an important decision for any dermatologist. Follow these key steps to make an informed choice:

• Assess your specific needs – Consider the nature of your practice, the procedures you perform, and any unique risks you face.
• Understand policy types – Familiarise yourself with the differences between claims-made and occurrence-based policies.
• Compare cover limits – Ensure the policy limits are sufficient to protect your assets and meet professional requirements.
• Review exclusions – Carefully read what’s not covered in the policy to avoid surprises in the event of a claim.
• Check the insurer’s reputation – Look for an insurer with a strong financial rating and a good track record in handling dermatology claims.
• Consider additional benefits – Some policies offer extras like legal hotlines or risk management resources.
• Seek expert advice – Consult with an experienced insurance broker who specialises in medical malpractice cover.

Jensten is committed to guiding you through this process, advising you so you can understand your options and secure the most appropriate cover for your practice.

Most standard dermatologist malpractice insurance policies do cover cosmetic procedures. However, make sure to disclose all types of procedures you perform when applying for or renewing your insurance. Some high-risk cosmetic treatments may require additional cover or affect your premium.

We recommend reviewing your dermatologist insurance policy annually or whenever there are significant changes in your practice. This could include adding new procedures or treatments, expanding your practice, changing your practice location, or updates to professional guidelines or regulations.

Regular reviews ensure your cover remains adequate and aligned with your current practice needs.

If a patient threatens legal action, take the following steps:

1. Do not admit fault or apologise in a way that could be construed as an admission of liability.
2. Document the incident thoroughly, including all relevant patient interactions and medical records.
3. Contact your insurance provider immediately. Jensten has a dedicated claims team ready to guide you through the process.
4. Do not discuss the case with anyone other than your insurer and legal representation.
5. Continue providing necessary medical care to the patient, unless they transfer to another provider.

Remember, your insurance policy is there to protect you in these situations. Early notification and proper handling of potential claims can significantly impact the outcome.

Jensten understands the specific hurdles that UK dermatologists must overcome. Our tailored insurance solutions provide extensive protection, allowing you to focus on what matters most – providing excellent patient care.