= AVMA/SAVMA  Members Only

Some files on this page require Adobe Reader software. Click on the image above to download it for free from the Adobe site.

What can I do to protect my practice in the event of a disaster?

Preparation is the key.

Many times, people get complacent and think, "It's not going to happen to me." One of our key messages for people who have that attitude is that, because of our airway, railway, and roadway systems, any person in the United States could be told to evacuate because of a hazardous materials spill. In addition, a fire can be devastating even if it affects a single practice.

It's important for practice owners to purchase insurance policies before disasters happen and be sure they have policies that, among other things, will cover loss of income, personal property, fire damage, debris removal, liability, and rented and leased equipment.

The most common complaint we've had from members who've been through a disaster is that they just didn't think to get expanded insurance coverage. It's so important to call your insurance carrier and get an individualized business owners policy to make sure all your bases are covered. You should work to develop a good relationship with your insurance agent, so when a disaster strikes, they know who you are.

Your insurance agent can help you understand exactly what coverage you have. For instance, insurance covers only what happens in the initial disaster—anything subsequent to that is the practitioner's responsibility. In the event of a tornado that damages the roof of the practice, it's generally your responsibility to cover the damaged area with a tarp so inclement weather and the elements don't do any additional damage. Replacement value coverage also is very important. If you have replacement value coverage for your inventory, you can get the supplies you need faster and easier.

After Sept.11, we learned that two other types of coverage are very important—business interruption and civil ordinance policies. A business interruption insurance policy will help to pay your bills and your staff in the event of a disaster. Civil ordinance coverage will provide financial protection in the event of a disaster or an emergency that causes local authorities to shut down access to your practice. On Sept. 11 and in the following days and weeks, some AVMA members had operational facilities, but they weren't allowed to go in and work. Civil ordinance coverage will help you financially when you are prevented from opening your hospital.

The AVMA's PLIT provides veterinary business owner policy packages. The trust knows what coverage you need as a veterinarian and how to direct you. Call (800) 228-7548 to request information and a quote from the AVMA PLIT. Other companies also provide business owners policies.

In addition to making sure your practice is adequately insured, there are many other steps you can take to protect your practice in the event of a disaster. The AVMA Disaster Preparedness series provides comprehensive information for practitioners and their clients. You can view these materials online at www.avma.org/disaster/.