Healthcare Providers Insurance Exchange

Claims Philosophy

Early Reporting & Claims Handling

The hallmarks of the HPIX claims philosophy are the early reporting of adverse outcomes, taking a cooperative and collaborative approach to claims handling and early resolution. This partnership approach has evolved and we have quickly developed excellent working relationships with numerous providers, facilities and carriers.
The sooner we learn of a potential loss, the better it is for the physician and the patient. One of our goals is to have the physician retain the patient in their practice, if possible, even after an unexpected outcome.
Early resolution does not always mean that we make a payment. We encourage physicians to be open and honest with patients before, during and after the office visit or procedure. In the event of an unexpected outcome, we believe this behavior mitigates tense situations before they lead to anger and a potential claim.
Please click here for a HPIX Early Reporting Reminder (PDF)

Cooperative/Proactive Approach

When dealing with hospitals and other carriers, HPIX believes that it is best to be proactive and work with our colleagues, rather than stall or be unresponsive.
Following an adverse outcome in the hospital setting, patients and families want answers. Administration wants to resolve issues, and we believe physicians can help. Being involved early allows the physician to maintain their relationship with the patient. This approach frequently alleviates the feelings of anger toward the medical provider.
If a claim is pursued, our approach with hospitals and carriers is to share defense as much as possible without placing either party’s interests at risk. Even if we cannot share an attorney, we attempt to have the attorneys work together to put forth the best defense for all healthcare providers.

Physician Medical Liability Advisory Committee

HPIX believes in defending good medicine. As such, it is important to our subscribers and us that we have quality medical review of the treatment rendered in each case.
Our committee consists of seven physicians of different specialties who meet periodically to discuss a variety of cases.
In addition, each of the physicians is called upon to review cases individually throughout the year.
Not all specialties can be represented by seven members so we use independent consultants of various specialties to help with case reviews.
In all cases we review treatment rendered by all providers, not just that of our insureds. Many times this information helps in negotiations or in the defense of the case.
See the Committee Section of our web site for more information.

Alternative Dispute Resolution

HPIX claims professionals use creative strategies to resolve matters for our subscribers. Closing cases earlier incurs fewer costs and preserves company assets.
We use mediation, arbitration and high/low agreements as preferred alternatives to the courtroom. This strategy is more predictable and physician friendly.
Pre-Complaint meetings and early depositions help to minimize litigation-related costs for insureds who may otherwise spend months in legal proceedings.
We recognize that our physicians’ time is very valuable and we want to reduce the time they spend resolving medical professional liability matters.

Physician Support

At HPIX we care about the emotional well-being of our subscribers. Litigation stress and adverse patient outcomes can take an emotional toll on physicians. Our team of physician advisors and executives recognizes that and HAS effective ways to help.
HPIX Physician Support Helpline. This service is provided at no charge to our subscribers. We have staffed the helpline with physician volunteers who have been trained to be a comforting voice in times of stress. Subscribers can take advantage of this program at any time and do not need to be involved in a lawsuit. All calls are confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege.
To learn more, please call 800-597-9603.

Contact the Claims Team

Call us at 800-597-9603.
Our team of experienced professionals is prepared to assist you with adverse outcomes, receipt of legal papers or simply to answer questions.
Call us if you are unsure of whether an incident needs to be reported. We believe that all calls are important.
We can also help you with claims history requests.
Call to request a check list for deposition preparation.