What if I am asked to take on COVID-19 related assignments that are not a part of my usual job duties?
Know your scope of practice, and reach out to your professional boards and other licensing or credentialing organizations as the national needs are changing daily. As long as you are practicing within scope of your state laws, CM&F has you covered. We are happy to help guide you on how to add any additional items should there be a need. CM&F has been protecting healthcare providers for over 100 years. We know how to handle a crisis, as we have been through many.
Helpful Hint #1
As facilities work to keep up with the demand for COVID-19 treatment beds, many healthcare workers are being asked to perform duties outside their everyday workflow. Make sure you consult your liability coverage documents to ensure you are protected for all assignments asked of you. If you are being asked to perform duties that are not covered on your policy, you could be financially obligated to pay out any damages in the event a negligence claim is brought against you while performing duties not within your scope of practice.
Helpful Hint #2
Professionally decline any unsafe patient assignments, even in time of crisis.
Many healthcare facilities are experiencing shortages in essential supplies like masks, gloves and hand-sanitizer. There are also limited treatment areas as more and more patients flood the waiting room. Develop and implement proactive strategies to alleviate unsafe patient assignments, and unsafe work conditions. Make sure someone is keeping track of supply inventory, properly distributing hygiene supplies amongst the facility, and routing patients to practitioners appropriately.
CM&F is urging all clients to login to their account to make sure employment status and professional credentials are updated. We promise to be there for you in the situations outlined in your policy.
For more information on COVID-19, check out our guide that includes free resources and key information about why liability insurance is crucial during this time.
