Support with GP indemnity costs

The Government’s state-backed clinical negligence scheme for general practice (CNSGP) came into operation on April 1, 2019.

It covers clinical negligence liabilities arising from NHS patient care that takes place on or after that date.

Information about the scheme can be found on the NHS Resolution website, which provides more detail on CNSGP and what it covers.

Cover for areas falling outside CNSGP

It is also important to note staff may need to take action in relation to areas that fall outside of the scheme. For example, membership of a medical defence organisation or other indemnity providers will be needed for activities and services not covered by CNSGP. This includes non-NHS or private work, inquests, regulatory and disciplinary proceedings, employment and contractual disputes, and non-clinical liabilities.

This arrangement is comparable to the position of clinicians in secondary care who have cover with an MDO or other provider for services not included in the clinical negligence scheme for trusts.

Run-off cover

Medical negligence is a “long tail business”, which means claims can arise many years after the incident. Many GPs will have had occurrence based cover, which means any incidents of clinical negligence that have an incident date during that indemnity.

Some GPs, however, have claims made or claims paid cover, which means the product only covers incidents either reported (made) or reported and concluded (paid) during a specific period.

It is important staff ensure they have the correct cover. Anyone unsure should contact their existing indemnity provider.

GPs and practice staff are urged to assure themselves of arrangements for all aspects of clinical practice and take time to understand the new scheme.

For further information please visit the NHS Resolution website.