As a resident, malpractice insurance probably isn’t at the top of your list of things to worry about. After all, we’re generally covered by the programs and hospitals we practice in during our training. Unlike our medical counterparts, who after finishing residency will typically have their premiums paid for by their new employer, the majority of dental residents and dentists will have to purchase their own malpractice coverage in solo practice as independent contractors or associates. Here are some of the things I’ve learned about malpractice insurance over the past year.
Insuring your income by purchasing a personal disability insurance (DI) policy is one of the first steps in anyone’s financial plan. Our income supports our lifestyle, investments, well-being, and families. Without it, we have few options as our new occupation will presumably provide significantly less income in the event that we become sick or hurt. When you consider the high earning potential of a dentist or specialist, protecting yourself against this event becomes even more critical.