Medical Malpractice Insurance in Saudi Arabia: Protecting Practitioners and Patient Rights
Medical Malpractice Insurance is a mandatory requirement by the Saudi Commission for
Health Specialties (SCFHS) for practicing healthcare professions in the Kingdom. This insurance aims to provide financial protection for health practitioners against legal claims and compensations arising from professional errors.
Why is it Essential for Health Practitioners?
• License Renewal: The Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) registration cannot be renewed without a valid professional indemnity insurance policy.
• Financial Protection: It covers the cost of "Diyyah" (blood money) or financial compensations awarded by Medico-Legal Committees.
• Legal Support: The policy covers legal defense costs and representation fees associated with professional liability lawsuits.
You can also check: Health Insurance in Saudi Arabia: The Complete Beginner's Guide
What Does the Policy Cover?
• Errors resulting from unintentional negligence or omission during duty.
• Bodily injury or death caused by a professional medical error.
• Incidents occurring within the medical facility during the provision of healthcare services.
Approximate Coverage Limits (By Specialty):
| Medical Specialty | Risk Level | Annual Coverage Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Surgery, Anesthesia, & OBGYN | High | Up to 1,000,000 SAR |
| Dentistry & Dermatology | Medium | Up to 500,000 SAR |
| Nursing & Technical Roles | Low | Up to 100,000 SAR |