VDS & Locuming!

RE: VDS & Locuming!

Alison Clare Hickman — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 15:59:08 GMT

I have only ever been 'formally' asked by one practice (independent) to provide evidence of my own VDS C&D policy - but that's the only time. Otherwise, it's just been a "you're expected to have it" chat or nowt.

Think it's coz I ask for evidence I am covered under the practice insurance policy for professional liability insurance and on this occasion they thought "yeah, that's a good idea to ask - let's ask back"...

All imminently sensible if you ask me. Insurance is essential in today's increasingly litigious society... I'll always go for a 'just-in-caser' (including a wee-wee too before I set off - but maybe that's TMI for y'all!! )

RE: VDS & Locuming!

Calli D — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 13:55:10 GMT

I know this is an older thread but just have a quick question. Starting a locum in a new placement soon and have been asked to provide an array of documents/copies of ID and asked if I have my own insurance. I am assuming this is VDS cover, which I do. I am in the process of compiling a file of relevant documents and copies of Identification etc to make the process simpler to access in the future but does anybody provide a copy of your Indemnity policy or just state that you have cover?

RE: VDS & Locuming!

Alison Clare Hickman — Sat, 15 Apr 2017 11:01:35 GMT

[quote user="Jill Macdonald"]I think it's important to note that the VDS cover, whilst really useful for legal/professional representation, doesn't cover you for 3rd party liability (as far as I am aware), so for example, if you have a disaster and a client takes legal action. For this you need either to be included on the practice 3rd party liability insurance, or to have your own policy.[/quote]

Yes, Jill is correct for Civil Liability you need a separate insurance - and in my research that comes as quite expensive, but again, peace of mind would always be my first priority!

It raised a query in my head as to whether I would be covered for that under the complimentary VDS cover provided by Vet Seekers so I asked and, yes it is. The cover provided is the same as you would get if working permanently for a veterinary practice; so you are covered for Professional Indemnity, Criminal & Disciplinary and Civil Liability. All 3! #'feeling privileged!

Ali h

RE: VDS & Locuming!

Jill Macdonald — Wed, 12 Apr 2017 12:26:28 GMT

I think it's important to note that the VDS cover, whilst really useful for legal/professional representation, doesn't cover you for 3rd party liability (as far as I am aware), so for example, if you have a disaster and a client takes legal action. For this you need either to be included on the practice 3rd party liability insurance, or to have your own policy.

RE: VDS & Locuming!

Alison Clare Hickman — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 06:46:49 GMT

Yes, I take out this second cover as it is not automatically provided by practices, umbrella companies or recruitment agencies (except Vet Seekers, who provide it for free so I now don't need to stump up for it as I am with them! ☺ Happy pocket!).

I feel happier knowing for certain I am insured and it also saves having to check and chase at each placement. Peace of mind and all that...

RE: VDS & Locuming!

James Colver Cert. Ed, RVN — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 14:22:17 GMT

You'll only have cover for the practice that you work at (assuming they have you named on their policy) - for the practice that you do the occasional locum for, you would either need to get them to name you on their policy, or take out your own cover

RE: VDS & Locuming!

ruth.e.morris — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 10:02:49 GMT

Does this apply if you are on the VDS register in your employed position and you do the occasional locum cover?

Thanks

RE: VDS & Locuming!

David Maclellan — Thu, 30 Mar 2017 13:33:17 GMT

Hi James, Thanks for your post. Yes this is true, but from working in the industry for 9 years and speaking with many locums there is a large proportion not being added to the VDS cover, even vets have been missed or not fully added by name. Which means many have worked with out full VDS cover. This is why we have taken this on board and wanted to combat this for our locums to make sure all vets & RVN's are 100% covered and also highlight the importance of the VDS.

RE: VDS & Locuming!

James Colver Cert. Ed, RVN — Thu, 30 Mar 2017 13:22:52 GMT

If you are working a long-term locum job or if you regularly do work for the same practice it is worth just asking the practice to name you on their own policy (no extra cost to them) - then you are covered and it costs nothing to you or any extra for the practice.