At SURGPLI, we understand that securing medical malpractice insurance is critical for protecting your practice and career. That’s why we proudly spotlight The Doctors Company — a carrier known for its exceptional AM Grade, comprehensive coverage, and unwavering commitment to surgeons. If you’re a surgeon seeking reliable malpractice insurance, explore how The Doctors Company meets your needs and why SURGPLI confidently recommends them.

Carrier Overview

Founded in 1976 by a group of physicians who believed doctors should control their risk management, The Doctors Company has established itself as a leader in medical malpractice insurance. Its mission is simple: provide tailored, comprehensive insurance solutions that empower medical professionals while offering robust support when needed.

Key Highlights:

Financial Strength:

An excellent AM Best rating reflects exceptional financial stability and claims-paying ability.

Market Presence:

Covers surgeons in 20+ states, including major markets like Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Texas.

Specialty Coverage:

Available for a range of specialties, including Bariatric Surgeons, OB/GYNs, Orthopedic Surgeons, Neurosurgeons, Plastic Surgeons, and more.

The Doctors Company’s strong market presence and enduring commitment to surgeons make them a standout choice among malpractice insurers.

Coverage & Policy Details

Understanding the nuances of malpractice insurance is vital for any surgeon. The Doctors Company provides a range of policies designed to meet diverse needs, offering flexibility and comprehensive protection.

1. Types of Policies Offered:

  • Claims-Made Policies:

    • These policies cover claims made DURING the policy period. They require the policy to be in force when the claim is filed, making tail coverage options crucial for ongoing protection.
    • Tail coverage extends protection even after the policy ends, ensuring that incidents occurring during the policy period remain covered.
    • This option is vital for surgeons who switch carriers or retire, as it prevents gaps in coverage.

  • Occurrence Policies:

    • These policies cover any incident that occurs during the policy period, REGARDLESS of when the claim is made.
    • This type of policy offers long-term peace of mind, as coverage is provided for the duration of the event rather than the claim submission date. Occurrence coverage from The Doctors Co is available in certain states only.

2. Limits of Liability:

The Doctors Company offers flexible liability limits that can be adjusted based on your practice’s size and risk profile. Unique features include:

  • MediGuard® PLUS allows you to increase the limits of your policy for more protection against specific claims like administrative, utilization, licensing, credentialing, and misconduct.

  • Tribute® Plan – Launched in 2007, members can receive a financial reward upon retirement (when they meet specific plan criteria).

  • Free Tail Coverage – In the event of permanent retirement, disability, or death, members who have 5 years of loyalty are eligible for free tail coverage.

3. Special Features:

The Doctors Company offers flexible liability limits that can be adjusted based on your practice’s size and risk profile. Unique features include:

  • Comprehensive Risk Management Support:

    • The company provides tools and programs to help you identify and reduce potential exposure before issues arise.
    • This can lead to fewer claims and lower overall risk, benefiting your practice’s bottom line.

  • Legal Defense Strategy:
    The Doctors Company boasts a robust legal defense approach with high success rates in defending surgeons. A strong defense minimizes disruptions and helps maintain your professional reputation during litigation.

  • Cyber Liability Coverage:
    Recognizing the modern risks associated with data breaches and cybersecurity, select policies include cyber liability protection to safeguard against losses as digital threats.

  • Endorsements and Sponsorships:
    Recognizing the modern risks associated with data breaches and cybersecurity, select policies include cyber liability protection to safeguard against losses as digital threats.

    See a list of their endorsements here:

4. Notable Policy Exclusions:

While coverage is comprehensive, surgeons should be aware of key exclusions:

  • Intentional Misconduct & Criminal Acts
    Claims related to intentional wrongdoing or illegal activities are NOT covered. Coverage applies only to professional errors or negligence.

  • Scope of Practice & Experimental Procedures
    Services outside the agreed scope of practice or procedures considered experimental or not aligned with the standard of care may be excluded.

  • Policy Period & Jurisdiction
    Incidents occurring outside the policy period or in locations not covered by the policy may not be eligible for coverage.

These features demonstrate why The Doctors Company is not just an insurance provider — it’s a partner dedicated to safeguarding your professional journey.

Strengths & Differentiators

The Doctors Company stands out in a competitive market due to its impressive claims handling, excellent customer service, and competitive premium offerings. At SURGPLI, we named The Doctors Company one of the Top Ten Medical Malpractice Insurance Companies for Surgeons in 2025. Here are three reasons why:

  • 1

    Claims Handling & Defense Strategy:
    • Proactive claims management system that emphasizes quick resolution and minimal disruption to your practice.
    • High success rates in defending surgeons underscore their commitment to protecting your reputation and financial stability during litigation.
    • A streamlined claims process allows you to focus more on patient care while knowing that your defense is in capable hands.

  • 2

    Customer Support & Resources:
    • Dedicated support teams guide you through every step of the claims process, offering personalized assistance and expert advice.
    • Provides ongoing risk mitigation programs and continuing education resources that help you stay current with best practices.

  • 3

    Premium Competitiveness & Discounts:
    The Doctors Company offers competitive premium rates, group discounts, and new surgeon incentives to help reduce costs. As a result, it is easier to access high-quality malpractice insurance without exceeding your budget.ent with best practices.

Industry Reputation & Risks

SURGPLI knows that understanding an insurance carrier’s industry reputation and potential risks is essential for making informed decisions.

Known for its strong market stability and sound financial backing.

The excellent AM Best A rating reaffirms The Doctors Company’s financial health and shows that the carrier has the resources to promptly meet claims obligations, even during heightened risk or economic uncertainty.

Known for its strong market stability and sound financial backing.

The excellent AM Best A rating reaffirms The Doctors Company’s financial health and shows that the carrier has the resources to promptly meet claims obligations, even during heightened risk or economic uncertainty.

RISK CONSIDERATIONS:

While The Doctors Company is highly rated and stable, it’s still important to consider policy exclusions and terms to ensure no gaps in coverage.

Payout Reliability and Claims Handling

Thanks to their proactive and transparent claims management system, surgeons consistently report timely and efficient claims handling from The Doctors Company.

Unlike some insurers who have faced criticism for delayed claims processes, The Doctors Company’s track record shows high satisfaction in managing claims swiftly.

Regulatory Concerns & Insolvency Risks

As a physician-owned, highly rated insurer, The Doctors Company adheres to strict regulatory standards and provides security for policyholders.

In contrast, lower-cost insurers and some risk retention groups (RRGs) may operate under less stringent regulations, increasing the risk of insolvency. The Doctors Company’s substantial compliance and financial oversight ensure reliable coverage without significant concerns about solvency.

Neurosurgeon Medical Malpractice Insurance Risk Management Guide

Key Factors for Surgeons Choosing a Malpractice Carrier

Choosing the right medical malpractice insurance carrier requires careful consideration of several important factors:

  • 1

    Financial Strength
    Look for carriers with strong financial ratings, such as an excellent AM Best rating. Reliable ratings from agencies like AM Best and S&P provide additional reassurance of financial stability.

  • 2

    Policy Flexibility
    Depending on your needs, you can choose between a claims-made or occurrence policy. If you are switching carriers or retiring, consider extended tail coverage. Flexible liability limits help protect your practice as it grows and evolves.

  • 3

    Coverage Options and Special Features
     Evaluate the breadth of protections offered, including each carrier’s specialties, since some types of surgery are considered riskier than others.

  • 4

    Customer Support and Value-Added Services
    Ensure the carrier offers dedicated support throughout every stage of the claims process, risk mitigation and continuing education resources.

How SURGPLI Can Help You

The Doctors Company offers top-rated, flexible malpractice coverage with excellent financial strength and comprehensive risk management.

SURGPLI simplifies the complexities of medical malpractice insurance. Get a personalized quote today and secure your future with a carrier that aligns with your professional values.

For additional insights and resources, visit our homepage–your career deserves the best protection.