Chiropractic malpractice policies are typically written on a claims-made basis — meaning the policy covers claims reported during the policy period, not claims arising from treatment during the policy period.
When you cancel a claims-made policy, retire, sell your practice, or switch carriers, you lose coverage for any future claim arising from past treatment. Tail coverage (Extended Reporting Period, or ERP) extends your reporting window after cancellation.
You need tail coverage if:
- You retire or close the practice entirely
- You switch malpractice carriers (though the new carrier may offer “prior acts” coverage instead)
- You sell the practice (buyer may require the seller purchase tail)
- You take extended leave or sabbatical
Tail cost: typically 100%–200% of your final-year premium for unlimited reporting. SOL windows determine how long of a tail you need; longer-repose states (NC, FL, GA) require longer tails:
