By: Health Professions Indemnity, a subsidiary of Professional Provident Society

In the ever-evolving landscape of medicine, where errors can occur and reputational damage is a constant risk, health professionals need to protect themselves against the potential financial losses and legal ramifications that may arise. This is where professional health indemnity insurance comes into play. Professional indemnity is essential for all professionals but is mandatory for medical professionals.

No healthcare professional relishes the thought of making a mistake or being accused of being negligent in the execution of his or her professional duties. However, even in cases where no mistake has been made, healthcare professionals may face legal or statutory challenges which necessitate a costly legal defence. When such situations arise and summons are received, the value of health professions indemnity (HPI) insurance and advice is truly appreciated.

PPS Health Professions Indemnity is a personal or group policy that protects registered healthcare professionals and their practices against claims and complaints resulting from alleged medical negligence or failure to exercise the duty of care towards a patient.

With a steadfast commitment to the well-being of its members, the Professional Provident Society (PPS) – a financial services company that focuses exclusively on graduate professionals and operates on the ethos of mutuality – developed the PPS Health Professions Indemnity product. The product, founded on the three core principles of financial security, sustainable quality indemnity and active engagement, was initiated to address certain challenges faced by South African health professionals, such as the litigious landscape and rising professional indemnity costs.

The cover provided by PPS is comprehensive and caters for any claim or complaint arising from a healthcare professional’s clinical practice. Policyholders are assisted 24/7 with medico-legal advice, legal support, and representation at the Health Professions Council of South Africa if a member of the public should lodge a complaint, judicial inquiries and malpractice litigation with payment of damage awards.

PPS Health Professions Indemnity CEO Jaco van der Sandt says, “At PPS, we provide the insured party with indemnity cover that will include the professionals’ own legal costs as well as any compensation to the claimant and/or legal fees that are up to the limit of indemnity of the policy. In doing this, we provide all parties with peace of mind and financial protection needed in the event of a claim”.

“To be on the safe side, it is better to have HPI cover. There are significant advantages to being covered, such as financial protection from lawsuits. Situations like these can interrupt your practice, but if you have HPI insurance, then all your defence costs are borne by PPS,” explains Van der Sandt.

“If you are held responsible or being blamed for financial loss suffered by one of your patients because of your consultation or services, it puts a great mental and financial burden on your practice and yourself. HPI gives you peace of mind that gives you the confidence to perform better in your profession, achieving greater results,” adds Van der Sandt.

If you would like to find out more about the PPS HPI insurance, please visit https://www.pps.co.za/insure/pps-health-professions-indemnit