Physicians practicing telemedicine need to ensure they are protected by malpractice insurance that is underwritten by an A-rated carrier that understands the requirements and risks of telemedicine services, as well as the special circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.
HERRIN, Ill. (PRWEB)
April 13, 2020
In response to COVID-19 and the novel coronavirus pandemic, MEDPLI, a leading medical malpractice insurance provider, has started offering malpractice insurance for telemedicine services.
The COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing are forcing doctors to limit face-to-face interactions and use telemedicine to treat patients. Internet video technology has made it possible for doctors to virtually see patients for chronic disease management, preventative care, follow-up visits and more. SARS-CoV-2’s high communicability has made telemedicine a safer and more pragmatic way to see patients, protecting medical staff and reducing the impact on the healthcare system.
Though telemedicine provides a safe and streamlined method for treating certain conditions, it carries the same liabilities as in-person medical exams. Physicians need to ensure they are protected by malpractice insurance that is underwritten by an A-rated carrier that understands the requirements and risks of telemedicine services, as well as the special circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Telemedicine isn’t just for this moment in time,” says Max Schloemann, CEO of MEDPLI. “Though COVID-19 will eventually get under control, physicians are seeing benefits of telemedicine unrelated to social distancing. The technology market is responding to the need for robust video conferencing systems, helping to usher in this new age of medicine. Telemedicine can’t become a substitute for all doctor-patient interactions, but its convenience is making it a viable and preferred option.”
Given the variations in policy types and insurance providers, it’s important for physicians providing telemedicine to check their policy before assuming they are protected. It’s also important to work with a provider that understands the legal requirements of practicing telemedicine, and how COVID-19 is impacting those mandates.
“COVID-19 has caused some states to relax licensure requirements for practicing telemedicine,” explains Max Schloemann. “Any physician who plans to provide telemedicine in states where they aren’t licensed needs to make sure their insurance covers them for those states.”
MEDPLI is currently helping all healthcare providers obtain malpractice coverage for telemedicine. You can contact MEDPLI today for help obtaining malpractice insurance for telemedicine, private practice, tail insurance, and group coverage.
ABOUT MEDPLI
MEDPLI is an independent insurance practice specializing in medical professional liability insurance. Through our A-rated insurance partners, we provide insurance solutions to doctors and healthcare providers in the United States. Visit medpli.com to learn more about our products and services.
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