Pharmacy Liability Insurance

Pharmacy liability insurance is a type of insurance that covers the legal risks associated with the operation of a pharmacy. It provides protection against any claims arising from accidents or incidents that occur on the pharmacy’s premises, including professional negligence or malpractice.

Pharmacies are required to have liability insurance to ensure that they are financially protected in the unfortunate event of an accident or incident. The cost of liability insurance can vary depending on the size and location of the pharmacy, as well as the type of coverage needed.

Who Needs Pharmacy Liability Insurance?

Any business that operates as a pharmacy should have pharmacy liability insurance. This includes retail, hospital, and independent pharmacies.

Pharmacy owners should consider purchasing liability insurance to protect their business from potential lawsuits or claims. Without it, pharmacy owners could face significant financial losses in the event of an accident or incident.

Types of Insurance Needed by Pharmacies

Pharmacies need several types of insurance to protect their business from different types of risks and exposures. These include:

General Liability Insurance: This type of insurance provides coverage for accidents and incidents that occur on the pharmacy’s premises, such as slip and fall accidents.
Professional Liability Insurance: Also known as malpractice insurance, this type of insurance provides coverage for claims arising from professional negligence or errors made by pharmacists or other healthcare professionals.
Product Liability Insurance: This type of insurance provides coverage for claims arising from defects or harmful side effects of drugs or products sold by the pharmacy.
Cyber Liability Insurance: With increasing reliance on technology, pharmacies are exposed to cyber threats such as data breaches or cyber-attacks. Cyber liability insurance provides coverage for the costs associated with these types of incidents.

How Much Does Pharmacy Liability Insurance Cost?

The cost of pharmacy liability insurance can vary depending on the size and location of the pharmacy, as well as the type of coverage needed. The cost of general liability insurance for a small pharmacy can range from $500 to $1,500 per year, while professional liability insurance can cost between $3,000 and $10,000 per year. Product liability insurance and cyber liability insurance are typically added as endorsements to general liability insurance and can cost an additional $500 to $1,000 per year.

It’s important to note that the cost of insurance can also depend on the pharmacy’s claims history and risk profile. Pharmacies with a history of claims or high-risk activities, such as compounding or dispensing high-risk medications, may face higher insurance premiums.

Pharmacy Risks and Exposures

Pharmacies face a variety of risks and exposures that can lead to lawsuits or claims. Some of the most common risks include:

Medication Errors: Errors in prescribing or dispensing medication can result in harm to patients and can lead to claims of malpractice.
Slip and Fall Accidents: Pharmacies are open to the public and are at risk for slip and fall accidents, which can result in claims of negligence.
Product Liability: Pharmacies can be held liable for the harmful side effects or defects in drugs or products they sell.
Cyber Threats: Pharmacies are at risk for data breaches or cyber-attacks, which can result in lawsuits or claims related to data privacy and security.

Commercial Insurance and Business Industry Classification

SIC CODE: 5912 Drug Stores and Proprietary Stores
NAICS CODE: 446110 Pharmacies and Drug Stores
Suggested Workers Compensation Code(s): 8045 Store – Drug – Retail