Why do caregivers need liability insurance?

There are few professions as selfless (and necessary) as care work. As a qualified carer, you are helping people gain access to the support they need, and empowering many to reclaim their independence and enjoy an improved quality of lifestyle. However, the aged care sector is not without its risks, which is why it’s crucial for care workers to have adequate coverage for whatever scenario might present itself in your line of work.

The Australian Government’s Home Care Package has thankfully put aged care services within reach of many more people aged 65 and over than what was previously possible, and this service can be provided in the comfort of their own homes. However, this has repercussions for caregivers, should a patient make a claim against you for an incident that takes place in their home.

This is just one example of how risk management needs to evolve as the care sector evolves, in order to ensure care workers are adequately protected against liability should something unexpected happens while working.

Regardless of whether you’re a self-employed carer or an employee of an organisation, you need to protect yourself against the risks of working in care.

Why do caregivers need liability insurance?

The nature of an aged care worker’s job often involves making decisions on behalf of those they are caring for. This means that if something goes wrong for whatever reason, the worker can be held liable.

For example, a care worker accidentally gives a patient a stronger dose of medication than what their prescription dictates. The patient needs emergency medical treatment, resulting in the carer being sued for negligence, malpractice or professional misconduct.

If you work with the elderly in any capacity, it’s important that you protect yourself against potential Public Liability claims and similar risks.  This includes everyone from individual aged care contractors, right through to healthcare organisation owners, managers, board members and so on. Other potential risks within the aged sector include:

• Lifting, supporting and transporting patients
• Moving and handling beds, mattresses, trolleys, wheelchairs and similar equipment
• Occupational violence
• Work-related stress
• Bullying and harassment

At Ansvar, our aged care insurance packages include (but are not limited to):

• Retirement Village Insurance
• Care Facility Insurance
• Business Liability Insurance
• Commercial Property Insurance
• Professional Indemnity Insurance
• Employment Disputes Insurance
• Health & Safety Solutions

What insurance is suitable for aged care workers?

May include:

• General Public and Product Liability
• Personal Accident Insurance
• Sexual Abuse Cover

Ansvar provides insurance for aged care workers

Do you need comprehensive  liability insurance for your caregivers? fAt Ansvar, our team of insurance and risk specialists we’ll work closely alongside you to create a tailored  solutions to protect your aged care workers.

Our in-depth knowledge of the care sector has been gained over many years as a reliable insurance provider for Aged Care, Child Care Facilities, Nursing Homes, Allied Health Care and Disability Care services. If you would like further information about we can help, please contact us on 1300 650 540.