There are many steps you can take to protect your livelihood as a veterinarian. One of the most important things you can do to ensure that you and your business remain protected is purchase insurance. There are many types of insurance available to veterinarians. Often, to ensure maximum protection, several policies are necessary. In this article, we discuss insurance for veterinarians.
License Defense
It’s important to take every precaution necessary when it comes to your veterinary license. Unfortunately, there are many events that can place your license in jeopardy. Depending on the state you live in, disciplinary measures may include suspension, fines, or even revocation. So, when an event arises that places your license in danger, it is important for you to mount a strong defense against state licensing board complaints. This is where license defense insurance is important. License defense insurance will cover your legal expenses in defense of complaints against you that are brought by your state licensing board. The coverage is sometimes included in professional liability insurance, which is discussed below.
Professional Liability
This type of insurance protects veterinarians against work-related negligence allegations. The three primary types of professional liability insurance policies are as follows:
Individual policy: An individual professional insurance policy provides protection to a single party.
Group policy: A group policy names an entire veterinary practice as the insured party. This type of veterinary insurance policy typically covers the entire practice and all of its employees and veterinarians. When this type of policy is in place, individual policies aren’t necessary.
Business policy: This type of policy is like a group policy, but professional liability, license defense, and animal bailee coverages are included.
Animal Bailee
Animal bailee insurance is designed to protect a veterinary practice if an animal dies or is injured while in its care, custody, or control. This kind of insurance coverage is typically subject to a deductible. Common types of animal bailee policies include:
Individual policy: This type of policy is usually offered as an optional third component for solo veterinarians after professional liability coverage and license defense.
Group policy: A group policy is like the individual coverage discussed above, but it is applicable to the whole practice.
Business: A business policy is often incorporated into an overall commercial property and liability policy. Examples of events in which this type of insurance policy may apply include:
- A fire
- A natural disaster
- An issue involving a fenced area, cage, or corral
- A fight between two or more animals
- An animal escape
Contact Our Experienced Nationwide Veterinary Attorneys
If you need veterinary legal assistance of any kind, Mahan Law is on your side. At Mahan Law, our distinguished veterinary team understands what it takes to protect you and your veterinary practice. When you come to us for assistance, we will address the unique needs of your practice in a manner that is legally valid and efficient. Please contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with one of our experienced and knowledgeable veterinary lawyers.