There are numerous factors to consider when purchasing a workers’ compensation insurance policy for Chiropractor Offices (Class Code 8832). Enforce Coverage Group specializes in Workers Comp Insurance in the New York area including New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. If you are looking to buy a new policy, call Pat Ryder or Pat Scanlon at 212-947-4298.
Chiropractor Office Workers Compensation Rates & Coverage: Class Code 8832
Description of operations: Chiropractors treat neuromuscular medical conditions by manipulating the patient’s spine, either manually or with mechanical equipment. Chiropractic treatment is a form of alternative medicine that uses a holistic approach to managing a patient’s overall health by focusing on the musculoskeletal system. Corrections to problems in the muscles, joints, or bones can resolve many health issues. Straight chiropractic does not offer diagnostic services beyond spinal manipulation. Mixed chiropractic clinics add diagnosis and homeopathic products to their treatment options. Some patients view the chiropractor as a substitute for a primary care physician. Chiropractors are required to be licensed in each state.
Property exposure to fire and crime is very light. Ignition sources include electrical wiring, heating, and air conditioning systems, and overheating of equipment. All electrical wiring must be up to code and equipment properly maintained. Most property items are better covered with physicians and surgeons inland marine floater. The business income and extra expense exposure is very low as operations can be quickly resumed at an alternate location.
Crime exposure is from employee dishonesty of both money and inventory. The potential for theft, directly or by means of identity theft, is great. Background checks should be conducted on all employees handling money. All ordering, billing, and disbursement must be handled by separate individuals. Monitoring must be constant.
Inland marine exposure includes accounts receivable if the chiropractor bills for services, computers, physicians and surgeons equipment floater items (which can include all office furnishings), and valuable papers and records for patients’ information. Duplicates of all records and programs should be kept off-site.
Premises liability exposure is moderate due to patients’ access to the premises. To prevent slips, trips, or falls, all areas accessible to patients must be well maintained with floor covering in good condition. The number of exits must be sufficient, and be well marked, with backup lighting in case of power failure. Steps should have handrails, be illuminated, marked, and in good repair. Parking lots should be maintained free of ice and snow. Maintaining a patient’s privacy is critical. Examination rooms, check-in and checkout stations must be in private areas so one patient cannot view information or overhear conversations regarding another patient’s’ confidential information
Product liability exposure may include the sales of ointments, herbal treatments, and nutritional programs. If the chiropractor has developed his or her own products, the exposure increases to that of a manufacturer.
Professional exposures are high. The exposure increases if the provider fails to conduct thorough background checks to verify employees’ credentials, education, and licensing. The more types of procedures that are performed, the greater the chance of injuring a patient. Because electrical impulse machines are used in treatment, care must be made to prevent high dosage or over-usage. X-ray machines should be safeguarded to prevent overexposure to the client and others. While the straight chiropractor primarily handles spinal manipulation, the mixed chiropractor may become involved with diagnosis and unique treatments involving herbal remedies and other therapies. Investigations should be made into the types of treatments and other services offered. Finally, inappropriate touching and sexual misconduct must be considered.
Workers’ compensation exposure comes from contact with patients and from possible transmission of disease from a patient. Gloves and masks should be worn at all times when working around bodily fluids. Employees should have access to vaccinations to prevent diseases. Unruly or unpredictable patients can cause harm including strains, back injuries, and contusions. Because of the physical manipulation of the patient’s body, arm, and back injuries are common and the chiropractor can be accidentally struck by a patient. Training and safety equipment should be in place to prevent exposure to radiation when performing X-rays. Since patient information and billings are done on computers, potential injuries include eyestrain, neck strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and similar cumulative trauma injuries that can be addressed through ergonomically designed workstations.
About Enforce Coverage Group Workers Compensation Insurance for Chiropractors
Enforce Coverage Group is located at One Pennsylvania Plaza in New York City with offices in Long Island NY and Fairfield County Connecticut. We provide chiropractor office workers compensation insurance and other business lines necessary to protect chiropractic businesses.