What is the primary purpose of malpractice insurance for healthcare professionals?

The primary purpose of malpractice insurance for healthcare professionals is to protect against professional negligence claims. Healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, can sometimes face lawsuits alleging that their services were not performed to the accepted standard of care, leading to patient injury or harm. Malpractice insurance serves as a crucial safeguard in these situations, as it helps cover legal fees, court costs, and any settlements or judgments that may be awarded if a healthcare professional is found liable.

The other options address different forms of insurance that healthcare professionals might consider. For example, property damage claims and the theft of practice property pertain to general liability or property insurance rather than malpractice insurance, which specifically focuses on professional conduct. Personal liability protection, while important, is a broader category that does not specifically cater to the unique risks associated with healthcare professionals’ practices and the obligations they owe to their patients. Hence, malpractice insurance is specifically tailored to the needs and risks of the healthcare sector, making it essential for protecting against claims related to professional negligence.