Nurse Registry Insurance Policy Information
Nurse Registry Insurance. Registered nurses make up approximately a third of the healthcare industry - and without competent, qualified, nurses, few healthcare facilities would be able to function competently.
Nurse registries, or staffing agencies for nurses, play a vital role in ensuring that hospitals and other facilities, such as palliative care homes, have access to the nursing staff they depend on. A nurse registry can place nurses on a temporary or a permanent basis.
Nurses registries arrange for the leasing and employment of nurses to clinics, hospitals, institutions, medical offices, nursing homes, and for private duty. The nurse's job assignment may be permanent, short-term, or temporary, as specified by the hiring company.
The registry keeps records of the nurses' education, degrees, licensing, skills, training, resumes, past assignments, and performances, matching requests for nurses with the type of service or training desired. They may assist hiring companies by running background checks.
The registry is compensated for their services by the company with the job opening or by the nurse seeking employment, on either a commission or flat fee basis.
The nurse seeking employment, the customer seeking the nurse, and the registry must fully understand the terms and conditions of the employment arrangement.
The contractual agreement should define who is obligated and responsible for providing workers compensation coverage, who pays the fee for the employment arrangement, who handles payment to the employee, who accounts for taxes and other mandatory deductions, and who provides miscellaneous employee benefits, if any, such as health insurance or a 401(k) savings plan.
While there is no question that nurse registries play an indispensable role in public health, these businesses are also vulnerable to a range of risks.
Nursing staff agencies help others weather their worst moments, but to make sure your business has access to first-aid in case of emergency, you need the right insurance. What types of nurse registry insurance coverage should be in place? Read on to discover more.
Nurse registry insurance protects your leasing and employment business from lawsuits with rates as low as $47/mo. Get a fast quote and your certificate of insurance now.
Below are some answers to commonly asked nurse registry staffing insurance questions:
- What Is Nurse Registry Insurance?
- How Much Does Nurse Registry Insurance Cost?
- Why Do Nurse Registries Need Insurance?
- What Type Of Insurance Do Nurse Registries Need?
- What Does Nurse Registry Insurance Cover & Pay For?
What Is Nurse Registry Insurance?
Nurse registry insurance is a type of insurance coverage designed specifically for nurse registries and the nursing agencies they represent.
It provides protection against potential lawsuits or other legal actions brought against the nurse registry or the nursing staff they place in healthcare facilities. This type of insurance helps to cover the costs of legal defense, as well as any settlements or damages that may be awarded in a legal case.
It may also provide coverage for liability for medical malpractice, negligence, and other forms of liability that may arise in the course of providing nursing care.
How Much Does Nurse Registry Insurance Cost?
The average price of a standard $1,000,000/$2,000,000 General Liability Insurance policy for nurse registries ranges from $47 to $69 per month based on location, size, revenue, claims history and more.
Why Do Nurse Registries Need Insurance?
Not only are nursing staff agencies legally required to invest in certain types of insurance, being correctly insured may save your business from massive debt or even bankruptcy in the event that you are confronted with a major peril.
Nursing registries face the same universal risks as any other commercial venture, after all, as well as risks unique to this industry.
Your commercial premises may be struck by acts of nature - wildfires, hurricanes, serious floods, and many others - at virtually any time, and you can do little to prevent this.
Theft, vandalism, and fire are three further examples of serious risks. When your office space and its contents are destroyed or damaged, massive repair or replacement costs inevitably follow. You may simultaneously be forced to interrupt your business, leading to losses on two fronts.
Third parties may be injured within your facility, or your agency's activities could accidentally damage a neighboring business' property. Unique to your industry, a nurse registry may also face lawsuits after one of the staff on their roster is accused of negligence of misconduct.
Nurses understand that risk is an integral part of life better than most. Insurance is crucial to nurse staffing agencies for the simple reason that mishaps and disasters are realistic threats.
Even if your business is impacted by a major peril, having the right nurse registry insurance means you are only facing a temporary setback from which you will soon recover.
What Type Of Insurance Do Nurse Registries Need?
Just as each nurse registry is unique, your insurance program should be tailored to your particular business. Variables like the jurisdiction within which you operate, the location of your office space, the size of your operation, and your number of employees all influence your insurance needs.
For advice tailored to your specific nurse registry, consult a commercial insurance broker who specializes in the healthcare sector. Meanwhile, here is a look at some of the most important types of nurse registry insurance that should be considered:
- Commercial Property - Your office space is the beating heart from which you match nurses with healthcare facilities. If it were to be impacted by perils that include acts of nature, theft, vandalism, and named accidents, this crucial insurance covers the repair and replacement costs for not only your building, but also many of its contents.
- General Liability - This type of nurse registry insurance covers the legal expenses that arise from third party bodily injury or property damage claims pertaining to your premises or activities. Were someone to fall down poorly maintained stairs in your facility, for instance, general liability coverage will take care of your attorney fees and settlement payments.
- Professional Liability - The nurses on your registry will each need to carry their own nurse malpractice insurance. That does not, however, mean that your agency cannot be held liable in malpractice cases. Professional liability insurance assists your business in managing the related costs.
- Workers' Compensation - If you employ five or more workers, likely administrative staff, your nurse registry will also need workers' compensation insurance. Should an employee be injured at work, this coverage will pay for their medical bills, as well as covering any income they lose to resulting work absences. Workers' comp does not, you should note, cover self-employed nurses on your registry.
Although these forms of nurse registry insurance go a long way toward protecting agency from financial loss, you may also require additional coverage, whether in the form of cyber or commercial auto insurance.
Discuss your questions and concerns with a commercial insurance broker who is deeply familiar with nursing.
Nurse Registries' Risks & Exposures
Premises liability exposure is moderate due to the number of clients visiting the premises. The waiting area, interview, and conference rooms must be well lighted with floor covering in good condition. Exits must be sufficient in number, be well marked, and have backup lighting in case of power failure.
Parking lots and sidewalks need to be in good repair with snow and ice removed, and generally level and free of exposure to slips and falls. Personal injury liability exposures are high due to the potential for allegations of assault, breach of confidentiality, discrimination, and invasion of privacy.
The registry must take great care to maintain confidentiality when obtaining and releasing information regarding nurses and employers.
Professional liability exposure is high. The background, training, and licensing of the agency's own employees should be verified. Background checks must be done on all nurses represented by the registry to verify their educational accomplishments, licenses, and credentials. Nurses must be matched with the needs of clients since misrepresentation of either party may result in allegations of negligence.
If workers are placed in temporary positions, contracts with the registry, the client company, and the nurse must specify the exact date, time, place, wages, insurance coverages, and other arrangements for the services that are arranged. Allegations of Medicare fraud for improperly billed services have been made in some states. In some circumstances, agencies may be held liable for improper treatment of workers by the hiring company.
Workers compensation exposures are generally limited to office-type hazards. Potential injuries include eyestrain, neck strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and similar cumulative trauma injuries that can be reduced through ergonomically designed workstations.
Personal contact with clients may involve situations that could produce injuries, such as assault. If nurses are leased or rented out, the exposure increases as the company has little control over the client's work premises or hazards.
The employment contract should specify whether the registry or the client company provides workers compensation coverage.
Property exposures are generally limited to that of an office. Ignition sources include electrical wiring, heating, and air conditioning systems, wear, and overheating of equipment. Computers and other electronic equipment may be targets for theft.
Inland marine exposure consists of accounts receivable if the registry offers credit, computers, and valuable papers and records for client companies' and nurses' information. Duplicates should be made and kept in an off-site backup facility for easy reproduction following a loss.
Crime exposure is from employee dishonesty since the registry usually handles billing and related paperwork for workers. Background checks should be conducted on all employees handling money. There must be a separation of duties between persons handling deposits and disbursements and reconciling bank statements. Audits should be performed at least annually.
Business auto exposure may be limited to hired and non-owned. The exposure increases if the registry offers shuttles for temporary workers, transports clients to job interviews, or if employees use their own vehicles for agency business.
All drivers must have appropriate licenses and acceptable MVRs. Vehicles must be maintained, and records kept in a central location. If the registry provides vehicles to employees, there should be written procedures regarding the private use of these vehicles by others.
What Does Nurse Registry Insurance Cover & Pay For?
Nurse registries are companies that provide healthcare services by connecting clients with healthcare professionals, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants. These companies may face various legal risks, which may result in lawsuits. The following are some of the reasons nurse registries may be sued:
Negligent hiring or supervision: If a nurse registry hires a healthcare professional who is incompetent, has a history of malpractice, or engages in misconduct, the company may be held liable for any harm the healthcare professional causes. Insurance can help pay for the legal costs associated with defending against such lawsuits, including attorney's fees, court costs, and settlements or judgments.
Failure to perform background checks: Nurse registries are responsible for ensuring that the healthcare professionals they hire have the necessary licenses and credentials. Failure to perform adequate background checks can lead to liability if a healthcare professional is found to be unqualified or unfit to provide healthcare services. Insurance can help pay for the legal costs associated with defending against such lawsuits.
Breach of contract: Nurse registries may be sued for breach of contract if they fail to provide the healthcare services promised to their clients or if they fail to pay healthcare professionals for their services. Insurance can help pay for the legal costs associated with defending against such lawsuits, including damages awarded to the plaintiff.
Negligent referral: Nurse registries may be sued if they refer a healthcare professional who is not qualified to provide the services requested by the client or if they fail to inform the client of the healthcare professional's limitations. Insurance can help pay for the legal costs associated with defending against such lawsuits.
Insurance can protect nurse registries by providing liability coverage, which can help pay for the legal costs associated with defending against lawsuits arising from the above examples. Liability insurance can cover attorney's fees, court costs, and settlements or judgments, up to the policy limit. In addition, insurance can provide coverage for claims arising from allegations of bodily injury or property damage, including those caused by healthcare professionals hired by the nurse registry.
By having insurance coverage, nurse registries can protect themselves from financial losses associated with lawsuits and ensure that they can continue to provide healthcare services to their clients.
Commercial Insurance And Business Industry Classification
- SIC CODE: 7361 Employment Agencies
- NAICS CODE: 561311 Employment Placement Agencies
- Suggested Workers Compensation Code(s): 8810 Clerical Office Employees NOC
Description for 7361: Employment Agencies
Division I: Services | Major Group 73: Business Services | Industry Group 736: Personnel Supply Services
7361 Employment Agencies: Establishments primarily engaged in providing employment services, except theatrical employment agencies and motion picture casting bureaus. Establishments classified here may assist either employers or those seeking employment. Establishments primarily engaged in operating theatrical employment agencies are classified in Industry 7922; those operating motion picture casting bureaus are classified in Industry 7819; and farm labor contractors are classified in Agriculture, Industry 0761.
- Chauffeur registries
- Employment agencies, except theatrical and motion picture
- Executive placing services
- Labor contractors (employment agencies), except farm labor
- Maid registries
- Model registries
- Nurses' registries
- Ship crew registries
- Teachers' registries
Nurse Registry Insurance - The Bottom Line
To discover the exact types of nurse registry insurance policies you'll need, what coverage limits you should have and the resulting premiums, consult with a reputable broker that is experienced in commercial insurance.
Additional Resources For Medical Insurance
Discover small business insurance for medical and dental professionals. Medical malpractice insurance is a type of professional liability that protects health care professionals from liability causing in bodily injury, medical expenses and property damage.
- Ambulatory Surgical Center
- Art Therapy
- Assisted Living Facilities
- Audiology
- Blood Banks
- Dental Lab
- Dental Office
- Diagnostic Imaging Centers
- Health Maintenance Organizations
- Healthcare Facilities
- Home Medical Equipment Dealers
- Hospitals
- Hypnosis
- Malpractice
- Marriage & Family Therapy
- Medical Clinics
- Medical Laboratories
- Medical Marijuana Dispensary
- Medical Practice
- Medical, Surgical & Hospital Supply Store
- Mental Health Counseling
- Nurse
- Nurse Registry
- Occupational Therapy
- Ophthalmologist
- Optician
- Optometrist
- Osteopathic Physicians
- Otolaryngologists
- Physicians Office
- Plastic Surgeons
- Podiatrists
- Prosthetists
- Psychology
- Psychiatrists
- Skilled Nursing Facilities
- Speech Therapy
- Substance Abuse Counseling
- Surgeons
- Telemedicine Business Insurance
- Veterinarian
- Specialty Medical Centers And Clinics
- Specialty Medical Malpractice
The medical industry is a crucial sector that plays a vital role in ensuring the health and well-being of individuals. It is a complex and highly regulated industry that requires specialized knowledge and expertise. As a result, the medical industry is exposed to a variety of risks, including legal and financial liabilities.
One of the main reasons why the medical industry needs commercial insurance is to protect against medical malpractice. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider deviates from the standard of care and causes harm to a patient. It can lead to costly lawsuits and significant financial losses for the healthcare provider. Business insurance helps to cover these costs and protect the financial stability of the medical facility.
Another reason the medical industry needs business insurance is to cover the cost of regulatory fines and penalties. The medical industry is subject to strict regulations and any violations can result in significant fines and penalties. Business insurance helps to cover these costs and protect the financial stability of the medical practice or facility.
In addition, the medical industry is vulnerable to data breaches and cyber attacks. These incidents can result in significant financial losses and reputational damage for the medical facility. Business insurance helps to cover the cost of recovering from a data breach or cyber attack and helps to protect the reputation of the medical facility or practice.
Overall, business malpractice insurance is an essential component of the medical industry. It helps to protect against the financial and reputational risks associated with the medical industry and helps to ensure the financial stability and success of medical practices and facilities.
Minimum recommended small business insurance coverage: Business Personal Property, Business Income and Extra Expense, Employee Dishonesty, Money and Securities, Accounts Receivable, Computers, Physicians and Surgeons Floater, Valuable Papers and Records, General Liability, Employee Benefits, Professional, Umbrella, Hired and Non-owned Auto & Workers Compensation.
Other commercial insurance policies to consider: Building, Earthquake, Equipment Breakdown, Flood, Leasehold Interest, Real Property Legal Liability, Computer Fraud, Forgery, Cyber Liability, Employment-related Practices, Business Automobile Liability and Physical Damage and Stop Gap Liability.
