The primary liability for education insureds is stable and the overall number of claims in the aggregate has begun to decline. Insurers see enterprise risk management (ERM) as a key factor in promoting cohesiveness in otherwise decentralized organizations. Emergency response and campus preparedness projects are emerging as the top risk management undertaking by educators. Educational institutions are also seeking coverage for pandemic exposure, and college risk managers are discussing procedures for evacuations, potential student containment in their own health facilities, and possible use of those facilities as local trauma centers.

Looking Ahead

Due to limited capacity and thorough underwriting, the standalone medical malpractice market continues to be challenging. Combined programs for teaching hospitals are being dissected and contract terms clarified. There remain a limited number of insurers that will provide the broadest coverage for higher-education institutions.