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What types of veterinary practices can get this insurance?

Our veterinary surgery insurance covers all types of veterinary practices including small animal clinics, large animal practices, equine specialists, emergency veterinary hospitals, referral centers, mobile veterinary services, and mixed practices.

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How much does veterinary surgery insurance cost?

Costs vary based on practice size, services offered, location, claims history, and coverage levels. Small animal practices typically start from £800-£2,000 annually, while specialist or large animal practices may require higher premiums due to increased risk exposure.

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What professional indemnity limits do I need?

Most veterinary practices require £1-6 million professional indemnity coverage. Small animal practices often choose £1-2 million, while equine or specialist practices may need £3-6 million due to higher value animals and complex procedures.

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Does the policy cover locum veterinarians?

Yes, our policies can be extended to cover qualified locum veterinarians working under your supervision, provided they meet our professional requirements and are properly registered with the RCVS.

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Are out-of-hours emergency calls covered?

Yes, emergency call-outs and out-of-hours services are covered under your professional indemnity insurance, including travel to client premises and emergency treatments performed outside your practice.

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What happens if an animal dies during treatment?

If an animal death results from alleged negligence or malpractice, your professional indemnity insurance will cover legal defense costs and any compensation awarded. The policy covers both the animal's value and associated costs.

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Does the insurance cover cyber risks and data breaches?

Basic cyber coverage is included, but we recommend adding comprehensive cyber insurance for veterinary practices, which provides comprehensive protection against cyber attacks, data breaches, and system failures that could compromise client records and practice operations.

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Are veterinary students and trainees covered?

Yes, veterinary students and trainee veterinarians working under qualified supervision are covered under your policy, provided they are enrolled in recognized veterinary programs and working within their scope of training.

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What about coverage for experimental or new treatments?

Coverage for experimental treatments depends on whether they follow established veterinary protocols and have appropriate client consent. We recommend discussing any innovative treatments with our underwriters before implementation.

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Does the policy cover referrals to other veterinarians?

Yes, the policy covers your liability when making referrals, including failure to refer when necessary or referring to inappropriate specialists. However, the receiving veterinarian needs their own professional indemnity coverage.

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Are alternative therapies like acupuncture covered?

Alternative veterinary therapies are covered provided they are performed by qualified veterinarians with appropriate training and certification in these techniques, and follow recognized professional standards.

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What documentation is needed for a claim?

Claims typically require client records, treatment notes, correspondence, witness statements, and any relevant expert opinions. Our claims team will guide you through the documentation process to ensure complete submission.

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How quickly are claims processed?

Simple claims are typically acknowledged within 24 hours and resolved within 2-4 weeks. Complex cases involving litigation may take longer, but we provide regular updates and interim support throughout the process.

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Can I get coverage for multiple practice locations?

Yes, we can provide coverage for multi-site veterinary practices, mobile services, and branch locations. Each location is assessed individually to ensure appropriate coverage levels and risk management.

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What about coverage for telemedicine consultations?

Telemedicine and remote consultations are covered under professional indemnity insurance, provided they comply with RCVS guidelines and maintain appropriate standards of care and record-keeping.

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Are there any exclusions I should know about?

Standard exclusions include criminal acts, intentional wrongdoing, work outside professional qualifications, and pre-existing known circumstances. We'll provide a full list of exclusions with your quote.

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Do I need separate insurance for boarding services?

If your practice offers boarding or hospitalization services, additional coverage may be needed for extended care liability, property damage by animals, and specialized boarding risks. We can assess your specific needs.

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What happens if I retire or sell my practice?

Run-off cover is essential when retiring or selling, as claims can arise years after treatment. We provide extended reporting periods and run-off coverage to protect against future claims from past treatments.

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Can the policy be paid monthly?

Yes, we offer flexible payment options including monthly installments, quarterly payments, or annual lump sums to help manage your practice's cash flow requirements.

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What support is available for RCVS investigations?

Our policy includes full support for RCVS professional conduct investigations, including legal representation, expert witness costs, and guidance throughout the regulatory process.

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Are overseas treatments covered?

Coverage for treatments performed overseas depends on local regulations and professional recognition. We can arrange international coverage for veterinarians working abroad or providing international services.

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What about coverage for prescription errors?

Prescription errors, including wrong medications, incorrect dosages, or drug interactions, are covered under professional indemnity insurance, along with any resulting treatment costs or complications.

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Do you offer discounts for claims-free practices?

Yes, we offer no-claims discounts and loyalty rewards for practices with good claims histories. Long-term clients and those with excellent risk management practices may qualify for reduced premiums.

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What training and risk management support is provided?

We provide access to veterinary-specific training materials, risk management guides, clinical protocols, and regular updates on industry best practices to help prevent claims and improve patient care.

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Can I add coverage for research activities?

Research activities require specialized coverage depending on the type of research, funding source, and regulatory requirements. We can arrange appropriate coverage for clinical trials and research projects.

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What about coverage for emergency euthanasia decisions?

Emergency euthanasia decisions made in good faith following professional protocols are covered, including situations where owners cannot be contacted immediately and animal welfare requires urgent action.

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How do I report a potential claim?

Report potential claims immediately by calling our 24/7 claims hotline. Early notification allows us to provide immediate support and guidance, even if you're unsure whether a claim will develop.

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Are there coverage limits for individual claims?

Coverage limits apply per claim and annually. We'll help you choose appropriate limits based on your practice type, typical case values, and risk exposure to ensure adequate protection without over-insuring.

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What about coverage for partnership disputes?

Partnership and employment disputes may be covered under certain circumstances. We can arrange additional coverage for partnership protection and employment practices liability if needed.

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How much does veterinary malpractice insurance cost in the UK?

Veterinary malpractice insurance in the UK typically costs £800-£5,000 annually depending on practice size, specialty, and coverage limits. Small animal practices average £1,200-£2,500, while equine and large animal practices may pay £2,000-£5,000 due to higher risk exposure and claim values.

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What is the difference between veterinary indemnity and liability insurance?

Professional indemnity covers claims arising from professional advice and treatment decisions, while public liability covers third-party injuries and property damage. Veterinary practices need both - indemnity for malpractice claims and liability for accidents on premises or during visits.

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Do veterinary nurses need separate professional indemnity insurance?

Veterinary nurses working under veterinary supervision are typically covered by the practice's policy. However, independent veterinary nurses or those performing advanced procedures may need separate professional indemnity insurance with coverage limits of £1-2 million.

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What happens if a veterinary insurance claim exceeds my policy limit?

If a claim exceeds your policy limit, you become personally liable for the excess amount. This is why choosing appropriate coverage limits is crucial - most veterinary practices need £2-6 million professional indemnity depending on their specialty and typical case values.

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Can I get veterinary insurance with a history of claims?

Yes, veterinary practices with previous claims can still obtain insurance, though premiums may be higher. Insurers assess each case individually, considering claim circumstances, practice improvements, and current risk management procedures when determining coverage and pricing.

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Is veterinary insurance tax deductible as a business expense?

Yes, veterinary professional indemnity and business insurance premiums are typically tax-deductible business expenses. This can significantly reduce the effective cost of coverage - consult your accountant for specific advice on your practice's tax situation.

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What veterinary specialties need higher insurance coverage?

Equine veterinarians, surgical specialists, emergency/critical care practices, and exotic animal specialists typically need higher coverage limits (£3-6 million) due to higher-value animals, complex procedures, and increased malpractice risk compared to general small animal practices.

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How long does it take to get veterinary practice insurance?

Standard veterinary insurance can be arranged within 24-48 hours for straightforward cases. Complex practices, those with claims history, or specialist services may take 3-7 days for underwriter assessment and policy arrangement.

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Do I need separate insurance for mobile veterinary services?

Mobile veterinary services need specialized coverage including transit insurance for equipment, extended public liability for working on client premises, and professional indemnity that covers off-site treatments. Standard practice policies may not provide adequate mobile coverage.

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What insurance do I need to start a new veterinary practice?

New veterinary practices need professional indemnity (£1-6 million), public liability (£2-6 million), employers liability (£10 million minimum), buildings/contents insurance, and business interruption coverage. Cyber insurance is also increasingly important for modern practices.

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Can veterinary insurance cover wrongful euthanasia claims?

Yes, professional indemnity insurance covers wrongful euthanasia claims where owners allege the decision was inappropriate or made without proper consent. This includes both emergency situations and routine euthanasia procedures where professional judgment is questioned.

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What is run-off cover for retiring veterinarians?

Run-off cover protects retiring veterinarians against future claims arising from past treatments. Since malpractice claims can emerge years later, run-off coverage is essential and typically provides 6 years of extended protection after retirement or practice sale.

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Do veterinary insurance policies cover legal costs for RCVS hearings?

Yes, comprehensive veterinary insurance includes legal defense costs for RCVS professional conduct hearings, disciplinary proceedings, and regulatory investigations. This covers solicitor fees, expert witnesses, and representation throughout the regulatory process.

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What is the average veterinary insurance claim amount in the UK?

Average veterinary insurance claims range from £5,000-£50,000, with most settling between £10,000-£25,000. However, serious malpractice cases involving valuable animals or complex surgeries can exceed £100,000, highlighting the importance of adequate coverage limits.

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Can I get veterinary insurance for part-time or locum work?

Yes, part-time veterinarians and locums can obtain professional indemnity insurance with coverage adjusted for their working pattern. Locum-specific policies are available, or coverage can be arranged through the employing practice's policy with appropriate extensions.

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What insurance do veterinary referral centers need?

Veterinary referral centers need higher coverage limits (£3-10 million) due to complex cases, expensive equipment, and higher-value animals. They also need specialized coverage for advanced procedures, research activities, and teaching responsibilities if applicable.

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How does veterinary insurance handle second opinion disputes?

When clients seek second opinions that contradict your diagnosis or treatment, professional indemnity insurance covers the resulting disputes. The policy includes legal defense and expert witness costs to support your professional decisions and clinical reasoning.

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Do I need separate insurance for veterinary equipment and tools?

Veterinary equipment is typically covered under business contents insurance, but high-value items like X-ray machines, ultrasound equipment, and surgical instruments may need separate coverage or higher limits to ensure full replacement cost protection.

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What veterinary insurance do I need for charity or volunteer work?

Veterinary charity and volunteer work requires professional indemnity coverage that extends to unpaid activities. Some policies automatically include charitable work, while others need specific extensions to cover volunteer veterinary services and animal welfare activities.

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Can veterinary insurance cover alternative medicine treatments?

Alternative veterinary treatments like acupuncture, homeopathy, and physiotherapy are covered provided the veterinarian has appropriate qualifications and follows recognized professional standards. Coverage depends on the treatment being within the practitioner's competence and training.

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What happens to my veterinary insurance if I sell my practice?

When selling a veterinary practice, you need run-off coverage for past treatments while the new owner needs their own policy. The transition requires careful coordination to ensure continuous coverage and proper handover of any ongoing claims or potential issues.

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Do veterinary insurance policies cover data protection breaches?

Basic cyber coverage is included in most policies, but comprehensive data protection requires separate cyber insurance. This covers GDPR fines, breach notification costs, credit monitoring for affected clients, and business interruption from cyber incidents.

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How do I choose the right veterinary insurance coverage limits?

Choose coverage limits based on your typical case values, animal types treated, and potential claim exposure. Small animal practices often need £1-2 million, while equine and specialist practices require £3-6 million. Consider the highest-value animal you treat as a minimum guide.

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What is aggregate vs per-claim coverage in veterinary insurance?

Per-claim limits apply to individual incidents, while aggregate limits cap total annual payouts. Most veterinary policies offer per-claim limits (e.g., £2 million per claim) with higher aggregate limits (e.g., £4 million annually) providing additional protection for multiple claims.

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Can I get veterinary insurance discounts for good risk management?

Yes, many insurers offer discounts for practices with excellent risk management, including clinical protocols, staff training programs, equipment maintenance schedules, and client communication systems. These measures demonstrate reduced risk and can lower premium costs.