Indian gynecologists are increasingly turning to professional indemnity (PI) insurance, with a 160 per cent surge in demand reported between April and October of FY25, according to Policybazaar for Business. The value of PI policies purchased by gynecologists also saw a staggering 260 per cent growth in the same period, underscoring the rising awareness of the need for legal and financial protection in this high-stakes medical specialty.

“This reflects a much-needed shift in the mindset of healthcare professionals toward risk management,” said Sajja Praveen Chowdary, Director and Head, Policybazaar for Business. “Gynecologists operate in one of the most litigious areas of medicine, with nearly 60 per cent of urban practitioners facing or expecting legal challenges during their careers, according to the Indian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.”

Growth Across Urban And Semi-Urban India

The adoption of PI insurance reflects a broader transformation across India's healthcare landscape. In Tier-1 cities, the number of policies sold grew by 60 per cent, and the value of these policies increased by 75 per cent year-on-year. Meanwhile, Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities recorded even higher growth, with an 80 per cent rise in policies sold and a 100 per cent jump in policy value.

“Gynecologists face dual challenges—managing increasingly complex cases while navigating a legal environment that is more litigious than ever,” said Tarun Mathur, Co-founder, Policybazaar. “With 80 per cent of malpractice claims in India linked to obstetrics and gynecology, it’s clear why this specialty is prioritizing robust insurance coverage.”

Tailored Solutions For Complex Risks

Recognizing these challenges, insurers are developing customised PI policies for gynecologists. These policies include:

• Coverage for maternal and neonatal complications, mitigating liabilities tied to high-risk outcomes.
• Extended claims windows, protecting doctors from lawsuits filed years after treatment.
• Legal assistance packages, offering critical support for malpractice litigation.

“Such tailored solutions empower doctors to focus on patient care, even under intense scrutiny,” added Chowdary.

A Shift Toward Proactive Risk Management

This trend reflects a larger shift in the Indian healthcare system, with professionals adopting a more proactive approach to risk management. Gynecologists, often at the forefront of patient care, are taking vital steps to secure their futures amid rising pressures. “Solutions like extended liability periods and legal assistance packages don’t just address financial risks—they also provide emotional and reputational security,” Mathur noted.

Source: https://www.businessworld.in/article/demand-for-pi-insurance-surges-160-among-indian-gynecologists-541181#goog_rewarded