Both coverage types protect against malpractice claims but differ in timing and long-term cost. Occurrence policies respond based on when care was provided, even if a claim is filed years later. Claims-made policies respond to claims made during the coverage period but require close attention to the specific claims reporting trigger contained within the policy wording — different carriers use different reporting triggers.
Occurrence coverage is simpler and permanent — no tail needed — but often costs more and isn’t always available. Claims-made coverage is usually cheaper upfront and more common for large healthcare organizations, but requires careful management of prior acts and tail coverage as providers or carriers change.
How Liberty helps: We compare claims-made vs. occurrence options based on specialty and growth plans, so you understand the true long-term cost — not just the first-year premium.