These are common questions the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) receives from potential members and members in relation to Medical Malpractice/Public Liability Liability Insurance.

1. Do I need to carry Medical Malpractice/Public Liability Insurance to practice as an acupuncturist?

As a professional you are always at risk of legal action being taken against you in respect of your legal liability for loss arising from breach of a professional duty. The professional indemnity insurance for acupuncturists policy protects you, providing you with cover in respect of both any claims that are made against you and the legal costs associated with any defence.

2. How do I take out this insurance with the BAcC?

It is a block membership based policy, which is included in your membership. You will need to contact the BAcC who will check your qualifications and if you are eligible you would apply for registration with them as a member. If you become a member the insurance arrangements will be put into place from the date you join.

3. Can I take up my membership without insurance

Membership includes insurance. The only exceptions are those who are Registered Medical Practitioners, those working solely within the NHS and those practising 'high risk' therapies such as osteopathy, chiropractic, manipulative therapy, colonic irrigation etc. which the bloc policy does not cover. Cover to include acupuncture and 'high risk' therapy can be provided separately by the insurers. If this is taken up the insurance part of membership is excluded from the fees.

4. I was a member some years ago, how do I re-join?

If it is within 2 years of leaving you can have automatic re-entry. If it is after 2 years, you need to go through a re-admissions procedure via the Admissions Department of the BAcC.

5. What is the limit of liability of cover I have for my Medical Malpractice/ Public Liability?

£5,000,000 any one event, which is also claims occurring, i.e. if you were insured when the incident happened you remain covered even after your membership and 'active' insurance ceases. This differs from 'claims made' policies where you have to be insured at the time the claim is actually made.

Our broker

 

Lockton is the world's largest privately owned global insurance broker with over 5,000 employees in the US, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia. Lockton delivers insurance and risk management services to organisations of all sizes as well as individuals.

Healthcare is a highly complex area of risk with a vast diversity of services, dynamic regulatory environment, challenging financial circumstances and growing patient expectations.

The Lockton healthcare broking team is one the largest in the UK, with unparalleled expertise across the sector in managing risk and insurance.

About RSA

RSA (Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc) is the principle insurer to the BAcC Indemnity scheme. With a 300-year heritage, RSA is one of the world's leading multinational insurance groups and is an established 'A' rated insurer. Today, it employs around 23,000 people, serving 17 million customers in over 140 countries.

The company's focus is to deliver strong and effective performance, even in the most challenging market conditions.

RSA will provide the key component of the insurance; the Professional Indemnity to protect against any claims of clinical negligence and public and products liability claims.

For more details please visit: http://www.rsagroup.com