Examine your employer's healthcare liability insurance

Before shopping for your own nursing malpractice insurance, you'll want to know what you're already covered for. This will determine how much coverage you need and in what areas you are particularly vulnerable.

I recommend: Sign up for a risk management newsletter from MedMal4Nurses that can highlight areas in which you may be vulnerable. Communicate with other nurses at the AllNurses forums to find others' experiences with liability insurance for nurses. Firsthand knowledge from other nurses can help you determine what risks you may face.

Obtain quotes from medical malpractice insurance companies

Companies offering malpractice insurance for nurses will give you a quote on their policies. Many have online resources like instant quotes and forms you can fill out to receive more information on available policies. Take advantage of these resources, and review the medical liability insurance policies for which you may qualify.

I recommend: Get a free professional liability insurance quote from Presidio and Sinclair Insurance.

Talk to an agent about nursing malpractice insurance

While getting an online quote can be a helpful start, you must talk to an insurance professional about your particular needs. This is a great way to gauge customer service too. If you are not familiar with the company, make sure that it's been in business for a while and that it has provided reputable services and policies to nurses.

I recommend: Nurses Service Organization (NSO) has been offering liability insurance to nurses for more than 30 years and is a favorite of many nurses. NSO partners with a number of nursing associations and is recognized as a leader in the field of malpractice insurance for nurses.

Weigh the medical malpractice policy options against your risk

Some policies may cover more than you need or may cost too much for your overall budget. Factor in your employer's insurance, your nursing specialty, your budget and the likelihood of performing various procedures to better assess the medical liability insurance you need before selecting the one that is right for you. Special circumstances and certain specialties may require different policies or coverage than a nurse working in, say, a general practitioner's office.

I recommend: ProLiability offers specific medical liability insurance for nurses in various specializations such as oncology and neonatal units. Parish nurses can find a list of medical liability companies that offer special policies for their situation at the National Health Ministries Web site.