What is chiropractor insurance?
Chiropractor insurance is a policy designed specifically for licensed chiropractors – whether they are mobile chiropractors or run their own clinic.
As a chiropractor, your task is to align the spine, relieve discomfort, and improve the overall well-being of your patients. But let's talk about something that often flies under the radar: the importance of insurance in your profession.
If you’re working closely with the spine, this means you are dealing with a part of the body that, if mishandled, can lead to serious consequences. It's a reality that is acknowledged as an inherent risk of the industry. Even as chiropractors strive to minimize risks through training and experience, insuring your chiropractic practice is non-negotiable.
Chiropractor insurance will help you cover your expenses in case of an incident, whether it’s a client lawsuit or repair costs for your office after a flood, having the right package will provide you with a peace of mind, knowing that no matter what you can get back to your business as usual.
What chiropractor insurance includes
Chiropractor insurance should typically cover you in the following areas:
- General liability: This protects your practice against claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury. If a patient slips and falls in your clinic, general liability insurance can cover medical expenses and legal fees.
- Professional liability: Also known as malpractice insurance, this coverage is crucial for chiropractors. It protects against claims of negligence, misdiagnosis, or errors in treatment that cause harm to a patient.
- Property damage: This covers damage to your clinic's physical assets, including the building, equipment, and furniture. If a fire damages your clinic, business property insurance can help cover the cost of repairs and replacements.
Recommended add-ons for chiropractor insurance coverage
While the basic coverage options are essential, there are several add-ons that can offer further protection for your chiropractic practice:
- Cyber liability insurance: In today's digital age, cyberattacks and data breaches are common. Cyber liability insurance protects your practice from the financial fallout of a cyber incident, including legal fees, notification costs, and credit monitoring for affected patients.
- Business interruption insurance: If a covered event forces you to temporarily close your practice, business interruption insurance can compensate for lost income and ongoing expenses like rent and salaries.
Common types of chiropractor insurance claims
Understanding the common types of claims in the chiropractic industry can help you better prepare and protect your practice:
- Slip-and-fall accidents: Patients or visitors may slip and fall on wet floors or uneven surfaces in your clinic. General liability insurance can cover the costs associated with these claims.
- Malpractice: Patients may file claims alleging negligence or improper treatment. Professional liability insurance is vital in these situations to cover legal defense costs and any settlements or judgments.
- Property damage: Natural disasters, fires, or theft can result in significant property damage. Business property insurance ensures that you can repair or replace damaged assets without a substantial financial burden.
How much does chiropractor insurance cost?
Depending on your specific factors, such as your revenue and size of your business, for example, your chiropractor insurance may cost you anywhere between $500 and $1,500 a year. Most small businesses – especially one-person businesses – shouldn’t pay more than $2,500 a year. If you’re running a bigger practice, with multiple employees, you can expect to pay $5,000 or even $10,000 a year (though that’s for businesses that are on the larger end of the spectrum).
Some of the factors to influence your premium are:
- Size of your practice: Larger practices with more employees and higher patient volumes may face higher premiums due to increased risk exposure.
- Location: Urban areas typically have higher premiums due to increased risks and higher patient volumes. In addition, if your practice is located in an area prone to disasters, you may also get higher premiums (similarly to home insurance).
- Coverage limits: Higher coverage limits result in higher premiums, but they offer greater protection.
- Claims history: A history of insurance claims can raise your premiums, as insurers may view your practice as higher risk.
How to get the cheapest chiropractor insurance rates
Securing affordable chiropractor insurance doesn't mean sacrificing quality coverage. Here are some tips to get the best rates:
- Shop around: Don't settle for the first insurance quote you receive. Compare rates from multiple providers to ensure you're getting the best deal.
- Bundle policies: Many insurance companies offer discounts if you bundle multiple policies, such as general liability and professional liability insurance.
- Maintain a safe practice: Implement safety protocols and regular training for employees to reduce the risk of accidents and claims. A claims-free history can lead to lower premiums.
Chiropractor insurance in Canada: What you need to know
Canadian chiropractors must adhere to specific regulations and insurance requirements. Here's what you need to know:
- Provincial regulations: Insurance requirements may vary by province, so it's essential to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your area. For example, Ontario chiropractors must carry professional liability insurance with a minimum coverage amount.
- Continuous coverage: Ensure that your insurance coverage remains continuous, even if you switch providers. Gaps in coverage can leave your practice vulnerable to claims.