The Key P&C Insurance Challenges for Medical Staffing Companies
Liability Risks Associated with Temporary Staffing
Medical staffing companies supply nurses, therapists, aides, and other healthcare workers to facilities on a temporary basis. Because these professionals often work under the direction of third-party employers, it can be difficult to determine where liability falls when incidents occur. This makes it critical for medical staffing companies to carry General Liability and Professional Liability coverage. However, securing adequate coverage with reasonable premiums can be challenging due to the perceived risks associated with temporary assignments in healthcare environments.
Workers’ Compensation Complexity
Workers’ compensation is one of the biggest challenges for medical staffing companies, especially since they place workers in environments where injuries can be more common. Whether it’s the risk of back injuries, slips and falls, or exposure to infectious diseases, workers’ compensation policies must be tailored to cover various work environments. Balancing the costs of workers’ compensation while ensuring coverage that meets state regulations and adequately protects employees is a significant challenge for these companies. We provide full-time claims advocates that assist with every employee injury for our clients.
Professional Liability Exposure
Healthcare professionals face heightened risks related to malpractice or negligence claims. Medical staffing companies can be held liable for the actions of their placed professionals, even if they were following the procedures of a contracted facility. This makes Professional Liability (or Errors & Omissions) insurance a crucial component of P&C coverage. Yet, obtaining sufficient limits at an affordable rate can be difficult due to the high-stakes nature of healthcare work.
Cybersecurity and Data Breaches
With access to sensitive patient information and employee data, medical staffing companies are prime targets for cyberattacks and data breaches. These breaches can result in significant costs, including legal fees, notification expenses, and potential lawsuits. Cyber liability coverage is a necessary part of a comprehensive insurance plan, but it can add to the overall complexity and cost of a P&C insurance package.
Navigating Industry-Specific Exclusions and Limitations
Not all insurance policies are created equal, and many standard P&C insurance policies include exclusions or limitations that may leave medical staffing companies vulnerable. For instance, certain policies may exclude coverage for claims related to certain healthcare services provided by temporary staff. It is crucial to work with an insurance agency that understands these nuances and can tailor a policy to cover the unique risks of a medical staffing business.
High Turnover and Fluctuating Workforce
The nature of the medical staffing industry often involves a fluctuating workforce, as demand for healthcare professionals can vary greatly depending on seasonality and local needs. This variability can make it difficult to maintain accurate records for insurance purposes, such as payroll for workers’ compensation. Insurance carriers may require adjustments throughout the policy term to reflect changes in the workforce, which can impact costs and cash flow for medical staffing companies.