Malpractice Insurance for Pennsylvania Doctors

Why Pennsylvania Physicians Need Malpractice Insurance

If you’re practicing medicine in Pennsylvania, carrying malpractice insurance isn’t just a best practice—it’s required by law. The state mandates participation in the MCARE (Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error) Fund, which provides excess liability coverage for healthcare providers.

Here’s what you need to know:

• State requirements: Physicians must carry a private malpractice policy with limits of $500,000/$1.5 million. MCARE provides an additional $500,000 per claim in excess coverage.
• Hospital privileges: Most hospitals in the state such as UPMC and others require proof of insurance to grant admitting privileges.
• Tail coverage: If you’re leaving a claims-made policy, securing tail coverage is essential to protect against delayed claims. Our team can help you explore options for nose or tail coverage depending on your transition plans.

What Impacts Malpractice Insurance Costs in Pennsylvania?

OPennsylvania is one of the most expensive states in the country for malpractice insurance—particularly in areas like Philadelphia. However, actual costs vary depending on multiple factors, including:

• Your specialty and risk classification
• Practice location (e.g., urban vs. rural counties)
• Hours worked and scope of services
• Past claims or disciplinary history
• Required limits of liability (e.g., MCARE participation)

Because rates can fluctuate, especially with changes to the MCARE surcharge or carrier pricing, we focus on helping our clients compare options across the market.

Our extensive network allows us to shop your coverage across more insurance companies than anyone else, frequently reducing your final cost by an additional 25–40% and ensuring you receive the lowest possible final price.

Want to see what your policy might cost?

Request your free quote now »

How to Get the Best Malpractice Insurance in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s insurance landscape is complex—especially with MCARE requirements layered on top of private coverage. Here’s how we help physicians find clarity and competitive pricing:

• Compare multiple quotes from every major carrier licensed in the state
• Understand policy differences between claims-made, occurrence, and tail coverage options
• Receive personal guidance from a dedicated agent familiar with Pennsylvania’s legal and insurance climate

Whether you choose to work directly with an insurance provider or use a broker, the agent’s fee is already included in your premium. However, by going direct, you risk overlooking more competitive pricing or better coverage options. We provide a comprehensive view of the market and work to secure the most favorable outcome for you.

Frequently Asked Questions: Malpractice Insurance in Pennsylvania

Is malpractice insurance required to practice in Pennsylvania?

Yes, both a private policy and MCARE participation are mandatory for active practitioners.

What is the MCARE Fund?

The MCARE Fund is a state-run excess liability fund that provides additional malpractice coverage above your primary policy limits.

Do I need tail coverage in Pennsylvania?

If you’re leaving a claims-made policy without securing prior acts coverage, yes—tail coverage is necessary to protect against future claims related to past care.

Why are rates so high in Pennsylvania?

High claim payouts, especially in metro areas like Philadelphia, and unique state rules contribute to elevated base rates.

Get a Quote from All Major PA Insurance Carriers

We work with:

• PMSLIC
• Coverys
• Medical Protective
• ProAssurance
• And more

Let us help you secure the right policy with the right carrier.

Start your quote now »

Helpful Resources for Pennsylvania Physicians

• Pennsylvania Medical Society
• Pennsylvania Department of Insurance
• MCARE Program Details
• Cunningham’s Medical Malpractice Insurance Guide
• 7 Secrets Your Medical Malpractice Insurance Agent Won’t Tell You