What's the deal with Malpractice in Telemedicine?

Malpractice—it’s a term every physician knows, but how does it apply in the world of telemedicine? If you’re transitioning into telemedicine or already practicing, you’ve probably wondered how malpractice coverage works and if the risks are the same as in traditional settings.

Here’s the quick rundown on malpractice for telemedicine physicians.

Is Malpractice a Big Concern in Telemedicine?

Not as much as you might think. While malpractice risks are always present in medicine, telemedicine tends to carry lower malpractice risk compared to in-person care. Why? Telemedicine often involves tightly regulated, well-documented interactions, reducing gray areas.

The bigger concerns in telemedicine often lie in regulatory compliance, like adhering to state-specific rules and licensing requirements. Malpractice insurance won’t help you if you’re not compliant—so staying on top of the rules is essential.

What Type of Malpractice Coverage Do You Need?

There are two main types of malpractice insurance:

1. Occurrence-Based Insurance: Covers any incident that happens while your policy is active, even if the claim is filed years later. It’s rare and harder to find these days.

2. Claims-Based Insurance: Covers incidents and claims that happen while the policy is active. If your policy ends, you’ll need tail coverage to stay protected for any claims that come in afterward.

Most telemedicine physicians use claims-based insurance. Always check if tail coverage is included—or if you’ll need to purchase it separately, especially if you’re working for a startup or smaller practice.

How Much Does Telemedicine Malpractice Insurance Cost?

Telemedicine malpractice insurance is much more affordable than coverage for high-risk specialties. Policies generally range from $4,500 to $12,000 a year, depending on your role and the type of care you provide. This is significantly less than what some in-person specialists, like OB-GYNs, might pay.

The Bottom Line

While malpractice is a key part of practicing medicine, it’s not the primary risk in telemedicine. The real focus should be on maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations, keeping thorough documentation, and understanding your insurance policy—including whether you’ll need tail coverage.

Malpractice coverage is your safety net, but staying compliant and proactive is your best defense.