Choosing the right malpractice insurance provider can make a major difference in how well you’re protected as a physician. NORCAL Group has been one of the most trusted names in medical professional liability insurance for nearly 50 years. Known for its financial strength, mutual ownership model, and risk management resources, NORCAL continues to be a leading choice for healthcare professionals across the country.
About NORCAL Group
NORCAL Group was founded in 1975 during a time when malpractice lawsuits were rising in Northern California. Created by physicians for physicians, the company’s goal was to provide affordable, dependable liability coverage.
What makes NORCAL different is that it operates as a mutual insurance company. This means its policyholders are also its owners, with voting rights and eligibility to receive dividends. That structure creates a more transparent and collaborative relationship between the company and the healthcare professionals it serves.
Today, NORCAL is among the top ten medical malpractice insurers in the United States based on direct written premium. The company is recognized for its local expertise, customer service, and commitment to risk management education.
The History and Financial Strength of NORCAL
Over the past five decades, NORCAL has grown from a California-based provider into a national insurer serving 39 states and the District of Columbia. The company’s long-term success is built on financial stability and consistent performance.
NORCAL holds an A (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, a mark of strong financial standing and dependable claims-paying ability. With more than $1.6 billion in assets and a policyholder surplus exceeding $700 million, NORCAL remains one of the most financially secure insurers in the medical malpractice market.
The company’s mutual model ensures profits are reinvested to benefit policyholders through dividends, lower premiums, and enhanced coverage options.
NORCAL also continues to innovate by adding cybersecurity protection at no additional cost, recognizing that modern medical practices face new digital risks alongside traditional liability concerns.
Medical Malpractice Insurance Overview: Policy Features and Benefits
NORCAL’s medical malpractice coverage is designed to protect physicians and healthcare organizations from both legal and financial risk. Their policies offer flexibility, strong claims support, and several built-in advantages.
Policy Features
- Claims-made coverage with optional nose coverage for prior acts
- Consent-to-settle clause, ensuring no claim is settled without the physician’s approval
- Defense costs outside policy limits, so legal fees do not reduce available coverage
- Lost earnings reimbursement for time spent on legal proceedings
- Free tail coverage upon retirement, disability, or death
In addition to malpractice protection, NORCAL offers administrative defense coverage, optional general liability, and cybersecurity coverage to safeguard against data breaches and digital threats.
Risk Management and CME Support
NORCAL’s risk management division provides educational tools, training, and resources designed to reduce liability exposure. Their programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) and have issued more than 30,000 CME certificates to healthcare professionals.
This focus on education and prevention has made NORCAL a respected name in physician risk management.
Key Takeaways
NORCAL Group remains one of the most dependable malpractice insurance providers in the United States. With strong financial backing, mutual ownership, and proactive risk management programs, the company provides physicians with both peace of mind and professional support.
Their combination of customizable coverage, policyholder dividends, and nationwide availability makes NORCAL a solid choice for doctors looking for long-term protection and partnership.
To compare NORCAL Group with other leading malpractice insurers, get malpractice insurance quotes through LeverageRx.
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