Debunking Myths About Medical Negligence That Every Doctor Should Know!

In the modern age of technology, the rapid flow of data has revolutionized the way we get and disseminate information. Nevertheless, this sufficient data has also contributed to the dissemination of false information and misconceptions. Often causing unnecessary misery and uncertainty for doctors, especially those practicing in India. It is important to understand the realities of medical negligence and indemnity in order to secure a medical profession. In this blog let’s debunk the four common myths that all medical professionals should be familiar with.

Myth 1: All Medical Negligence Leads to Malpractice Lawsuits

Fact: The misconception that all cases of medical negligence led to malpractice lawsuits is common. It’s essential to differentiate between the two. Medical negligence refers to lack of proper care leading to unintentional harm due to mistakes or carelessness, such as misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or medication mistakes. On the other hand, malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care intentionally or knowingly, resulting in harm or injury.

In cases where a doctor is accused of negligence or malpractice, a court will determine whether it was negligence or malpractice based on the evidence. Given the increasing number of such cases, professional indemnity insurance is important for doctors. This insurance not only provides legal assistance but also helps manage compensation payouts, even in out-of-court settlements. We at CoverYou, India’s largest insurance broker for doctors, offer full protection, including cashless compensation to patients up to the policy sum assured.

Myth 2: Indemnity Insurance is Expensive and Unnecessary

Fact: With the rise in medical negligence cases worldwide, particularly in India, professional indemnity insurance has become essential. Research cited by Business standard indicates that India sees up-to 5.2 million cases of medical negligence cases annually across various medical sectors. Many private hospitals now require doctors to carry professional indemnity insurance to protect their practice.

At CoverYou, we offer professional indemnity insurance at rates significantly lower than the market average. With discounts of up to 80%, multi-year policy options and additional benefits without any compulsory charges. This indemnity insurance not only provides financial security but also allows doctors to focus on patient care without the burden of potential legal challenges.

Myth 3: Only high-risk specialists need indemnity insurance

Fact: High-risk medical professionals such as surgeons or anesthesiologists are more likely to face lawsuits, but all healthcare professionals are at risk of negligence claims. Whether you work as a consultant, pathologist, radiologist, or general practitioner, there is always the potential for legal action.

For example, if a pharmacy dispenses the wrong medication by mistake to your patient. In such situations, the doctor who prescribed the medication could still be held responsible. Professional indemnity insurance serves as protection, offering financial coverage and legal assistance regardless of your area of practice. In today’s complicated healthcare environment, having professional indemnity insurance is not just recommended but it’s essential for a doctor’s secure profession.

Myth 4: Hospital Indemnity Covers Doctor Negligence Cases, and PPS is the Same as Indemnity

Fact: No not at all, Hospital indemnity policies do not cover the doctor’s medical negligence; the coverage depends on the terms of the hospital’s policy. If a patient lodges a complaint against a hospital, the hospital’s indemnity policy covers it, but if the complaint is lodged against a specific doctor, for that a doctor needs the personal professional indemnity policy.

Furthermore, the Professional Protection Scheme (PPS) totally differs from a professional indemnity policy. Under PPS, doctors bear the responsibility for litigation costs, including legal fees, without the possibility of an out-of-court settlement. In contrast, professional indemnity policies provided by CoverYou offer options for out-of-court settlements, with zero compulsory charges, and coverage for all legal fees. Which are paid directly by the insurance company.