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LPNs
Understanding Professional Liability Insurance
In order to be registered with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must obtain professional liability insurance that meets the minimum requirements established by CLPNA Bylaws.
What Is Professional Liability Insurance?
Professional liability insurance, also known as “malpractice insurance,” has a dual purpose: it protects the professional and safeguards the public interest.
Liability Insurance in the Complaints Process
If an LPN is named in a complaint, and they have professional liability insurance, then they can use their disciplinary expense coverage for legal costs associated with the complaints process.
LPNs Must Obtain Professional Liability Insurance Every Year
LPNs must obtain and pay for insurance separate from their renewal fees. If an LPN does not do this, they may not be able to renew.
Options for Professional Liability Insurance
LPNs can meet the requirement for professional liability insurance in one of two ways.
Option One: Use the Direct Link
The CLPNA will provide a link where you can optionally select and pay for a plan from Lloyd Sadd that has been designed to meet our minimum coverage requirements. If you use this link, you will not have to upload proof of insurance.
Option Two: Select Your Own Provider
You will also have the option of selecting a plan with the insurance provider of your choice, providing the plan meets the CLPNA’s minimum requirements. If you select your own provider, you must upload proof of insurance.
Requirements for Professional Liability Insurance
The CLPNA requires the following minimum coverage for medical malpractice liability insurance:
- general malpractice coverage of up to $2,000,000 per claim,
- up to $5,000,000 for all claims against a registrant in a single year, and
- disciplinary expenses coverage up to $50,000 per occurrence per year (e.g., coverage for lawyers’ fees during conduct proceedings).
In addition, insurance coverage must also meet the following requirements:
- Insurance must be held personally by registrants. You cannot use insurance provided to you by your employer.
- The insurance must apply specifically to LPN practice. If you are registered with another college, you must have a separate policy for that profession.
- You must carry the insurance throughout your registration year and notify the CLPNA if you cancel your insurance.
- You must provide evidence of insurance at the time of renewal or at any other time if requested by the CLPNA.