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What Wisconsin Physicians Need to Know

Wisconsin has one of the most unique medical malpractice systems in the country, thanks to its state-run Patient Compensation Fund and longstanding tort protections. While base premiums here are generally lower than national averages, physicians are still legally required to carry malpractice coverage—and the system comes with its own compliance and reporting rules. Whether you’re working in Milwaukee, Madison, or a rural clinic, understanding the state’s mandatory coverage requirements is key to practicing with peace of mind.

Who’s Practicing in Wisconsin: A Closer Look

Wisconsin’s healthcare system includes a large number of employed physicians, independent specialists, and rural family doctors. Coverage needs often vary by work setting and employment status, including:

  • Physicians working at major hospital systems like UW Health, Aurora Health Care, or Froedtert
  • Rural family medicine and internal medicine practitioners
  • Surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other high-liability specialists
  • Nurse Practitioners and PAs practicing under supervising physicians
  • Telehealth providers treating Wisconsin residents from out of state

Even with the Fund in place, all healthcare providers must comply with minimum coverage limits and understand how the Fund supplements primary insurance.

Do You Need Malpractice Insurance in Wisconsin?

Yes—malpractice insurance is legally required for physicians practicing in Wisconsin. The state mandates that healthcare professionals carry a specific level of primary liability coverage and also contribute to the Wisconsin Injured Patients and Families Compensation Fund (IPFCF).

Here’s what’s required:

  • Minimum limits of liability: Physicians must carry at least $1 million per occurrence / $3 million annual aggregate in coverage.
  • Participation in the IPFCF is mandatory once these limits are met, providing excess coverage beyond the standard policy.
  • Proof of coverage must be filed with the state and maintained as a condition of licensure and practice.

Note: Medical professionals not in compliance with Fund participation or minimum limits may be subject to fines, licensing issues, or restricted hospital privileges.

How Much Does Malpractice Insurance Cost in Wisconsin?

Thanks to the state’s Fund system and a relatively low litigation rate, Wisconsin’s malpractice premiums are lower than in many surrounding states. However, costs still vary depending on your specialty, location, and claims history.

Thanks to our extensive network, we frequently help reduce your final cost by an additional 25-40%. By shopping your coverage across more insurance companies than anyone else, we ensure you receive the lowest possible final price.Want a specialty-specific quote with discounts applied?
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Wisconsin

  • Internal Medicine Average Rate $3,261
  • General Surgeon Average Rate $9,781
  • OB/gyn – Average Rate $14,945
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How to Get the Best Coverage at the Right Price

Even with Wisconsin’s standardized insurance framework, physicians still benefit from comparing policies across carriers. Rates, tail options, and claims support can all vary between insurers.

Here’s how to approach shopping:

  • Use a broker familiar with Wisconsin’s unique system. We’ll ensure your primary policy aligns with IPFCF requirements.
  • Compare all top-rated carriers. Even in a regulated market, competition exists—and discounts do vary.
  • Don’t overlook tail coverage options. If you move, retire, or change jobs, claims-made policyholders still need protection.
  • Understand your Fund surcharge. Each year, physicians contribute to the IPFCF based on specialty—our team can explain how that works.

Tip: Cunningham Group helps physicians simplify compliance and maximize savings—at no extra cost.

Find Coverage for your Practice

  • Individual Physicians

    Find peace of mind for your practice. Allow us to locate suitable malpractice coverage from top providers, offering multiple quotes for your convenience.

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  • Tail Coverage

    Secure your future with Tail Insurance. Protect yourself from past claims with extended liability coverage—multiple quotes to match your needs.

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  • Medical Directors

    Lead confidently with comprehensive malpractice coverage. We specialize in finding tailored plans from various providers for medical directors like you.

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  • Telemedicine Coverage

    Navigate the virtual frontier with confidence. We help find comprehensive malpractice coverage for telemedicine practitioners, offering multiple quotes.

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  • Moonlighting Coverage

    Moonlight with confidence when you have the right protection. Get various malpractice coverage options, ensuring you’re covered wherever you practice.

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  • Surgeons

    Let us identify the ideal malpractice coverage from top providers so you can focus on excellent surgical outcomes.

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  • OBGYNs

    Secure specialized malpractice coverage for women’s health. We provide tailored solutions with multiple quotes to meet the specific needs of OBGYNs.

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  • Dermatologists

    Protect your dermatology practice confidently. We specialize in comprehensive malpractice coverage, delivering multiple quotes so you can choose the one that matches your needs.

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Client Testimonials

Below is what a few clients have to say about our prices and service. We know that cost and trust are the two most important factors when shopping for your medical malpractice insurance. We pride ourselves at being the best at both!

I had a great experience working with you on getting mal-practice insurance. You were diligent in responding to my information request and were able to find a plan that worked well for my situation and that was affordable. I appreciate your persistence and your professionalism. I will definitely recommend you to my co-workers.

Pediatrician in Wisconsin

Historic Medical Malpractice Insurance Rates in Wisconsin for Physicians.

FAQs About Malpractice Insurance in Wisconsin

Is malpractice insurance required in Wisconsin?

Yes. Physicians must carry a minimum of $1M/$3M in primary coverage and participate in the state’s Patient Compensation Fund.

What is the Wisconsin Injured Patients and Families Compensation Fund?

The IPFCF provides excess malpractice coverage once a claim exceeds your primary limits. It helps keep insurance affordable while protecting both patients and providers.

Do I need tail coverage in Wisconsin?

Yes, if you have a claims-made policy and are leaving the state, retiring, or switching employers. Tail coverage protects you from delayed claims.

Are premiums lower here than in Illinois or Minnesota?

Typically yes. Wisconsin’s tort protections and the existence of the Fund have historically kept base rates more stable.

Get a Quote from All Major Wisconsin Carriers

  • The Doctors Company
  • Medical Protective
  • ProAssurance
  • NORCAL Group
  • Coverys

We’ll help you compare coverage options, understand Fund participation, and lock in the best pricing for your practice and specialty.

Additional Resources for Wisconsin Physicians

  • Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance
  • Wisconsin Medical Society
  • Wisconsin Injured Patients and Families Compensation Fund
  • Cunningham Group’s Guide to Claims-Made Policies
  • Cunningham Group Tail Coverage Guide

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