A single gap in medical malpractice insurance can dismantle decades of clinical expertise and financial planning in an instant. The right coverage protects your career, your reputation and your long-term financial security—while the wrong policy can leave dangerous gaps you may not discover until it’s too late. With dozens of carriers, policy structures and pricing models available, many physicians turn to search engines asking the same question: What is the best medical malpractice insurance?

This question often leads physicians to compare carriers, coverage types and pricing across the top 10 medical malpractice insurance companies but “best” is rarely one-size-fits-all. Instead, the best option depends on specialty, location, career stage and risk tolerance.

What is the best medical malpractice insurance?

The best medical malpractice insurance is the policy that provides adequate coverage limits, financial stability, responsive claims handling and fair pricing based on your specialty and practice setting. Some physicians prefer a nationally recognized carrier with broad resources. Others seek out a regional or specialty-focused insurer with deep expertise in local regulations and claims trends.

It’s important to look beyond premiums alone. Policy features such as consent-to-settle clauses, tail coverage options and legal defense support can significantly affect long-term outcomes. Additionally, carrier reputation matters, especially when it comes to defending claims rather than settling quickly.

Your choice in carriers is not a lifelong commitment. Changing insurers is common during career transitions, relocations or contract changes. However, switching coverage—especially from a claims-made policy—can trigger the need for tail coverage. Understanding how your policy handles prior acts coverage is essential before making a move.

What are the two types of malpractice insurance?

There are two primary malpractice insurance structures: claims-made and occurrence-based policies. Understanding the differences helps physicians evaluate risk and long-term costs.

Claims-made policies cover claims only if the policy is active when the incident occurred and when the claim is filed. These policies are typically less expensive upfront but may require tail coverage when leaving a position or changing insurers.

Occurrence-based policies cover incidents that occur during the policy period, regardless of when the claim is filed. While premiums are higher, there is no need for tail coverage later.

Many physicians ask, what does malpractice insurance cover? At a minimum, policies cover legal defense costs, settlements and judgments related to professional negligence. Some policies also include licensing board defense, HIPAA violations and deposition coverage.

Coverage is typically state-specific and tied to where services are rendered. Physicians practicing telemedicine, locum tenens or across multiple states should confirm their policy aligns with their practice footprint.

Is medical malpractice insurance worth it?

For most physicians, medical malpractice insurance is not only worth it—it’s essential. A single claim can result in six- or seven-figure legal expenses, even if the case is ultimately dismissed. Beyond financial protection, coverage provides access to experienced defense attorneys and claims specialists who understand healthcare litigation.

Physicians often compare offerings from the top 10 medical malpractice insurance companies to assess financial strength, claim defense philosophy and policy flexibility. Large carriers may offer stability and broad coverage, while smaller or physician-owned insurers may provide more personalized service.

Another concern physicians raise is, “what happens if your medical malpractice insurer goes out of business?” While rare, insurer insolvency can occur. State-guaranty funds often provide limited protection, but coverage caps may apply. This risk highlights the importance of selecting insurers with strong financial ratings and long-standing track records.

How much is malpractice insurance per month?

The cost of malpractice insurance varies widely. On average, physicians may pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month depending on specialty, location and claims history. High-risk specialties such as obstetrics and neurosurgery face significantly higher premiums than primary care physicians.

Comparisons among the largest medical malpractice insurance companies often reveal pricing differences driven by underwriting philosophy rather than coverage quality. Some insurers emphasize aggressive risk management, while others price more conservatively based on regional claim trends.

There is also a notable correlation between highest paid physician salaries and cost of malpractice insurance. Specialties with higher earning potential often face greater litigation exposure, leading to higher premiums. While income can offset cost, physicians should still evaluate whether coverage limits and policy features align with their actual risk profile.

Ultimately, the answer to “what is the best medical malpractice insurance” depends on your specialty, location, career stage and long-term goals. The best policy is one that balances cost with comprehensive protection, financial stability and responsive claims support—while giving you confidence to practice without constant legal worry.

If you’re evaluating coverage options or comparing insurers, explore PracticeLink’s Resource Center to access physician-first articles, podcasts and strategic partners. These trusted resources can help you make informed decisions about malpractice coverage and other critical career considerations.