Medical Malpractice Insurance
Medical Malpractice Claim in South Africa: What to Do, What Not to Do, and How to Protect Yourself
Very few moments in medical practice feel as unsettling as receiving a patient complaint, legal letter, HPCSA notice or summons. Even experienced practitioners often describe the first reaction the same way: shock, panic, anger, self-doubt or fear. For many healthcare professionals, a medico-legal issue feels deeply personal because medicine is personal. Your work is tied…
Medical Malpractice Insurance in South Africa: The 2026 Guide
Medical practitioners carry a kind of professional pressure that is difficult to explain to anyone outside healthcare. Every consultation, diagnosis, prescription, procedure, referral and follow-up carries responsibility. Most days, that responsibility is handled quietly and professionally. But when something goes wrong — or when a patient believes something has gone wrong — the consequences can…
What Constitutes Medical Negligence?
The following typically constitute medical negligence in South Africa: To establish a claim of medical negligence in South Africa, it is generally necessary to provide expert medical opinion as evidence to demonstrate the breach of the duty of care. This expert opinion is typically provided by another qualified healthcare professional practising in the same field.…
What Is A Gap In Cover And The Risks?
A “gap in cover” refers to a period of time when insurance coverage is not in effect (i.e. a period in which you are NOT COVERED). It means a break or interruption in the continuity of insurance protection. During this gap, the policyholder is without the benefits and safeguards provided by the insurance policy. Key…
Understanding Prescription
What is a prescription period? Prescription is a legal principle that sets a time limit for bringing legal claims. It aims to promote legal certainty and prevent claims from being pursued indefinitely. Time Limits for Claims Different types of claims have specific time limits for prescription. It is essential to be aware of these time…
Why do I need a professional indemnity policy?
As a professional, you provide advice, services, or expertise to your clients or customers. However, there is always a risk that your clients may suffer a financial loss, injury, or damage as a result of your professional services, which could lead to a claim or lawsuit against you. A professional indemnity policy provides you with…
What to do when you receive a letter of complaint and/or summons?
Receiving a formal complaint, letter of demand or summons can leave even the most experienced professional feeling anxious. It is natural to want to respond immediately, explain what happened and defend your reputation. Before you do, pause. What you say and do next could affect your legal position and your professional indemnity insurance cover. A…
What limit of indemnity do I need as a specialist medical professional?
The limit of indemnity you need as a specialist doctor in South Africa will depend on several factors, including: Medical malpractice insurance policies offer limits of indemnity ranging from R1 million to R50 million or more. However, it is important to note that higher limits of indemnity may be required for certain specialties or practices,…
Common claims for surgeons
Surgeons are often subject to medical malpractice claims, which can be financially devastating for both the surgeon and their practice. Common claims for surgeons in the insurance industry include: It is important for surgeons to have comprehensive medical malpractice insurance coverage to protect against these and other potential claims. A qualified insurance broker can help…
Why is having a local South African med-mal broker preferable?
Having a local South African medical malpractice broker can be preferable for several reasons: Overall, having a local South African medical malpractice broker can provide you with the local knowledge, personalized service, and accessibility that you need to find the right coverage for your medical practice. While a broker who is not a local broker…