Claims

Our senior claims executives are two of the most experienced available in the State of Florida. Ray Carey, Senior Vice President of Claims has been protecting physicians in Florida for over 35 years.  Joe Brackett, Vice President of Claims has over 27 years experience defending Florida physicians. Our staff understands the Florida court system; the plaintiff attorney's we face; and the laws that protect you, the policyholder.

Our Claims Department Will:

  • Conduct an immediate investigation of allegations and determine the best course of action.
  • Consult with independent medical experts to assess the treatment rendered.
  • Provide a strong defense against nuisance suits.
  • Work for a speedy and fair resolution of any meritorious action.
  • Utilize experienced defense attorneys who specialize in medical liability claims.
  • Keep you involved throughout the investigation process.

Incident Reporting:

We encourage precautionary reporting of incidents that are likely to result in a claim or lawsuit.
 
This gives us time to review the facts, evaluate the potential liability and take any necessary action. Incident reporting does not trigger any mid-term changes in pricing or insurability.
 
Examples of incidents that should be reported: Complications; Patient dissatisfaction or complaints; Requests for medical records; Failure of the patient to keep follow-up appointments or to pay outstanding bills.

How To Report A Claim:

You have received a lawsuit or a notice of intent or you become aware of an incident that is likely to result in a claim or lawsuit:

What To Do:

  1. Gather the following information
    • Name, address and telephone number of your practice
    • Policy number
    • Date, time and location of alleged incident
    • Brief narrative description of the allegation against you (do not offer your opinion at this point)
    • Name, address and telephone number of the person or entity making the claim
    • Any lawsuit papers or legal proceedings
    • Any other pertinent documents or correspondence, including newspaper accounts.
  2. Download and complete our Notice of Claim form     

    Notice of Claim Form   

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  3. Fax the Notice of Claim form and all the information collected in (1) above to us at 904-296-1245.
  4. Create a separate file for correspondence related to the claim – do not put that information in the patient’s file (it is discoverable).
 

What Not To Do:

  1. Do not alter the patient’s records in any way
  2. Do not release records or any other information without contacting our claims department
  3. Do not discuss the case with anyone other than your claim adjuster or your defense attorney
  4. Do not contact the patient or his/her attorney