Malpractice Insurance in Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology: Understanding Liability Risk and Coverage Considerations.

Abstract

Malpractice risk in radiology reflects the dual nature of the specialty: diagnostic radiologists direct patient care through interpretation, reporting, and communication of radiographic studies while interventional radiologists assume additional responsibility through invasive procedures and peri-procedural management. Diagnostic radiology claims commonly involve missed or delayed diagnoses, emergency imaging, oncologic interpretation errors, communication failures, and follow-up gaps. Interventional radiology claims more often center on procedural complications, informed consent, delayed recognition of adverse events, and post-procedural care. Malpractice insurance is therefore not merely an administrative requirement - it is a practical component of professional risk management. Radiologists should understand their coverage type, policy limits, and tail coverage, as well as how their coverage applies to activities such as moonlighting, teleradiology, trainee supervision, and procedural practice. This review summarizes major liability patterns in diagnostic and interventional radiology, outlines core malpractice insurance concepts, and highlights risk-reduction strategies grounded in communication, documentation, follow-up systems, informed consent, peer learning, and coverage awareness.