The AAO Insurance Company (March 19). Chairman of the Board and CEO Dr. Terry R. Pracht provided the following statement:
“We know some AAO members will want to know if they have coverage under their AAOIC Professional Liability Insurance policy for the allegation of transmission of the COVID-19 virus in their orthodontic office(s). The answer is that there may be coverage depending on the facts and circumstances of any claim. There also may be coverage under your general liability policy. In the event of a claim, be sure to report it promptly to both AAOIC and your general liability carrier. Generally, it will be difficult for an individual to prove where they acquired the virus now that there is community transmission of the disease. However, AAOIC recommends limiting your practice, for as long as practical, to emergency care only, while using enhanced universal precautions. You should also be available to patients by telephone and electronic media to help resolve problems remotely whenever possible.”