Policyholder Services

Am I covered if I provide care to my patients for emergency non-ophthalmic conditions?

Yes. We understand that emergency situations can arise in your office, and the patient must be treated immediately or at least stabilized until he or she can be safely transferred to another provider. In fact, the failure to render aid could increase your liability exposure. OMIC considers the rendering of emergency services in these situations to be within the ordinary and customary scope of practice of ophthalmologists, and coverage would be extended to you accordingly.

Similarly, your policy would respond, if needed, for volunteer emergency services you render as a “Good Samaritan.” For example, you may render non-ophthalmic aid to a driver injured in an automobile accident you witness. Likewise, OMIC will generally cover non-ophthalmic treatment you provide in a bona fide emergency, for example, to victims of natural disasters, terrorist acts, or disease outbreaks. “Good Samaritan” or similar laws may limit or eliminate your liability exposure in such situations.

Updated 3/18/2020