With a growing number of medical malpractice incidents resulting in thousands of deaths every year, one question that comes up frequently is knowing more about the specialties paying the highest malpractice insurance. Some medical specialties are more vulnerable to medical malpractice claims than others. Let us find out which specialists pay more premiums or have higher chances of being sued. Before finding an answer to this question, it is important to note that certain factors leave an impact on the likelihood of a specialist getting sued.
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Obstetrics and Gynecology
The list of most sued doctors is topped by obstetrics and gynecologists. They are the most frequent and vulnerable targets of medical malpractice suits. It is prudent to note here that if the case against these doctors is proved, it results in the highest payouts. It also increases the chances of these specialists getting sued by dissatisfied patients. Such doctors pay the highest medical malpractice insurance premiums. More so because the two-year statute of limitations mandatory in such cases also seems to be drawn out.
Neurosurgery
The next specialty of medical practitioners who are more susceptible to get sued for medical malpractice. Studies indicate one out of five neurosurgeons faces the challenge of medical malpractice at least once in their career. Thus, they are also a frequent target of lawsuits. As a result, many insurance companies have increased premiums for medical malpractice insurance cover. The insurance agencies end up paying high payouts to plaintiffs covering damages and heavy litigation fees.
Plastic Surgery
The third specialty that faces high insurance premium challenges is plastic surgeons. Many people have a perception in their minds about their looks after going through plastic surgery. When that perception fails to match reality, the first step taken by the plaintiffs is to file a medical malpractice suit against their doctors. It is one of the most common reasons behind inflated plastic surgery malpractice cases. Here, even if the surgeon has done nothing wrong, the patients do not feel satisfied or are upset with the results. It results in a hike in medical malpractice insurance premiums.
Orthopedic Surgery
This specialty of doctors also ends up paying hefty insurance premiums. This surgery is considered risky and involves complicated surgeries like spinal surgeries where anything can go wrong. Neurosurgery again is a very delicate surgery and also includes unclear diagnosis. If the diagnosis is wrong or delayed, it can raise the chances of medical malpractices and consequently higher premiums.
Cardiologists
The next set of doctors susceptible to higher malpractice premiums are cardiologists, physicians, and surgeons. The matters of the heart are very delicate, and a slight delay in making correct diagnosis or treatment can result in grave danger to the patient. This sensitive nature of treatment raises the insurance premiums. When faced with such suits, the plaintiffs and the doctors both look for highly seasoned and expert Miami medical malpractice attorneys who can fight their case and get results in their favor. It is essential to look for a skilled person who can present the case most efficiently to get the desired outcomes.
