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Occurrence vs. Claims-Made Policies

Occurrence vs. Claims-Made Policies

Malpractice insurance is vital to protect your practice, livelihood and reputation. When choosing coverage, you need a policy that fits your individual situation. That's why Professional Solutions Insurance Company offers dentists both occurrence and claims-made options.

Posted in Dental Insights on Monday, November 10, 2025

There is no difference in the kind of injury or damage covered; the difference is how and when coverage applies.

Occurrence Policy

An occurrence policy provides coverage for claims of alleged incidents that occur while the policy is active. The claim can be reported at any time in the future, even if the policy is canceled. This is important because lawsuits are often filed by patients months or even years after an incident took place.

  • Coverage is available at the limits of liability, terms and conditions in effect based on time of the alleged incident.
  • Tail coverage is not necessary with an occurrence policy, since coverage is provided for future claims.
  • The base premium for an occurrence policy remains steady and does not increase with maturity.

Claims-Made Policy

A claims-made policy provides coverage for claims of alleged incidents that both occur and are reported on or after the retroactive date and before the policy terminates. (The retroactive date is the first day claims-made coverage begins.)

  • Coverage is provided at the limits of liability, terms and conditions in effect at the time the claim is reported.
  • A claims-made policy offers a lower initial premium that increases each year until reaching maturity in the fifth year of coverage.
  • Potential coverage gaps can occur, so it’s important to work with a Professional Solutions representative to ensure coverage.

Tail Coverage

If you cancel a claims-made policy, we recommend your purchase tail coverage—also known as extended reporting coverage. This optional endorsement provides coverage for claims for alleged incidents that took place during the policy period but were not reported while the policy was in effect.

Tail coverage may not be available if your claims-made policy canceled due to nonpayment of premium, resulting in a possible gap in coverage.

We’re Here to Help

You’ve worked hard for your practice. You deserve malpractice insurance that fits your needs and an insurance company that gives you personalized service whenever you have a question or concern. Ready to learn more? Call a Professional Solutions representative at 800-864-8026.

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