• LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • (512)-334-6200
  • Client Login
  • Request A Quote
Physician’s Resource Services
  • Services
    • Insurance
      • Disability Insurance
      • Life Insurance
      • Business Overhead Insurance
      • Long-Term Care Insurance
    • Tax
      • Tax Preparation
      • Tax Planning
      • Business Formation
    • Financial Planning
      • Retirement Planning
      • Debt Management
      • Student Loans
      • Estate Planning
      • Succession Planning
    • Investment Management
      • Goal Planning
      • Allocation Analysis
      • Ongoing Analysis
  • Who We Help
    • GME Programs
    • Residents & Fellows
    • Practicing Physicians
  • Resources
    • Physician Wellness
    • Defining DI
    • Request A Quote
    • Patient Physician Podcast
  • About Us
    • Meet The Team
    • Partners
    • Careers
    • News & Articles
    • Contact
  • Schedule Consult
  • Menu Menu

Special Considerations for Physician Disability Insurance

As a physician, your commitment to providing exceptional care leaves little time to consider personal contingencies. Yet, the possibility of an unexpected disability disrupting your career—and income—is a risk that cannot be overlooked.

In this guide, we’ll explore policy types, coverage specifics, and more so you can make an informed decision regarding physician disability insurance and protect your ability to earn.

Assessing Specialty-Specific Risks

The risk of disability is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Each medical specialty carries its unique set of challenges and health risks that could impact your ability to practice. Understanding these risks is the first step in securing the right physician disability insurance.

Unique Risks in Medical Specialties

Consider the repetitive stress injuries that surgeons face, a direct result of prolonged and intricate procedures. For anesthesiologists, constant exposure to hazardous materials could lead to chronic illnesses. Psychiatrists, on the other hand, might experience the mental and emotional toll of dealing with patients’ emotional traumas. These examples only scratch the surface of specialty-specific risks faced by medical professionals.

The Impact of Specialty-Specific Risks

When risks turn into reality, they can disrupt your professional life. A disability might limit the hours you can work, require expensive treatment, or even end your career prematurely. For physicians, whose extensive training is closely linked to personal identity and economic stability, the consequences can be profound. This impact extends to your financial security as well, affecting not only you, but also your loved ones.

Ensuring Adequate Protection

It’s imperative to choose a disability insurance policy that is designed with your specific risks in mind. Such targeted coverage ensures that, should a disability arise, you’re protected in a way that addresses the unique challenges you face in your chosen field of medicine.

Understanding Own-Occupation Coverage

Own-occupation coverage is designed to protect you if a disability prevents you from performing the specific duties of your medical specialty. If you are unable to practice in your chosen field, you will still receive benefits even if you can work in another capacity or specialty. When evaluating disability insurance policies, own-occupation coverage should be high on your list to make sure your unique skill set is adequately insured.

The Critical Nature of Own-Occupation Coverage for Medical Specialists

For medical specialists, the stakes are high. Years of education combined with the specific expertise required in fields like neurosurgery, cardiology, or anesthesiology mean your earning potential is intricately tied to your ability to perform complex procedures and care within your specialty. In the face of disability, own-occupation coverage addresses the nuanced needs of specialists whose livelihoods rely on their fine-tuned skills.

  • It provides peace of mind knowing that you can still maintain your standard of living if you are unable to practice in your specialty.
  • It allows financial security, enabling you to focus on recovery or adaptation without the added strain of financial hardship.
  • It respects the investment you’ve made in your career, safeguarding the time and resources expended to work in your profession.

From true own-occupation to any-occupation coverage, Physician’s Resource Services is your partner in finding disability insurance that supports the unique needs of your medical specialty.

Our Disability Support

Surgical Hands Coverage

As a surgeon, your hands are not just tools of the trade—they’re your most valuable assets. The precision and steadiness required in surgery are irreplaceable traits that hinge on the full functionality of your hands. It’s essential to consider a physician disability insurance policy that includes specialized coverage for injuries or disabilities affecting your surgical hands. Securing this coverage means that, should your hands become disabled, you would be entitled to benefits that help you maintain your standard of living and cover ongoing expenses.

High-Income Protection

Your expertise demands extensive training and dedication and rewards you with a higher earning potential compared to general practitioners. This economic reality underscores the importance of physician disability insurance to protect your income. It’s about safeguarding the lifestyle and financial stability you’ve worked tirelessly to achieve.

Income replacement needs vary greatly among specialties, so it’s essential to consider the coverage limits of your disability insurance policy. Whether you’re a cardiologist, anesthesiologist, or neurosurgeon, aligning your policy with your specific income replacement needs and financial obligations is paramount.

High-Income Considerations

  • Consider your current earnings when evaluating policy limits, as your insurance should cover a significant portion of your income in case of a disability.
  • Factor in future income growth, particularly if you are early in your career or nearing a significant advancement.
  • Examine your living expenses, debts, and savings, determining how much income you would require to maintain your standard of living during a period of disability.
  • Review additional financial responsibilities such as family needs, tuition for children, and investment contributions.

Disability Insurance Definitions for Physicians

When it comes to securing your future as a physician, understanding the fine print of your disability insurance policy is crucial. The definition of disability in your policy sets the foundation for when and how benefits are paid should you face an unexpected illness or injury that impacts your ability to work. Review the disability definition outlined in your policy to make sure it reflects the duties and requirements of your medical specialty.

Why It Matters

A generic policy may not fully protect the investment you’ve made in your career, particularly if you are a specialist. For example, neurosurgeons and cardiologists perform highly specialized work. A disability that prevents them from carrying out their specific responsibilities could be devastating financially, even though they might still be able to perform other duties within the field of medicine.

Elevate Your Understanding of Physician Disability Insurance With PRS

Securing physician disability insurance can be complex. Physician’s Resource Services leverages years of experience to help you find coverage that aligns with your medical practice. For a partnership that enlightens and protects, reach out to PRS today. Together, we can safeguard your future.

Share This Post

  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on X
  • Share on WhatsApp
  • Share on Pinterest
  • Share on LinkedIn
  • Share on Tumblr
  • Share on Vk
  • Share on Reddit
  • Share by Mail

More Like This

Why You Need to Lock in Disability Insurance for Doctors During Residency

Why You Need to Lock in Disability Insurance for Doctors During Residency

Disability Insurance
Securing disability insurance for doctors during residency ensures financial protection and lower premiums.
April 24, 2025
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Why-You-Need-to-Lock-in-Disability-Insurance-for-Doctors-During-Residency.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2025-04-24 08:02:412025-05-01 15:37:38Why You Need to Lock in Disability Insurance for Doctors During Residency
young female doctor family therapist sit at desk

Disability Insurance for Doctors: Mistakes Physicians Should Avoid

Disability Insurance
Choosing the right disability insurance for doctors is essential for protecting your income. Learn how to avoid the most common mistakes.
April 8, 2025
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/young-female-doctor-family-therapist-sit-at-desk.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2025-04-08 09:00:002025-05-01 15:37:38Disability Insurance for Doctors: Mistakes Physicians Should Avoid
Navigating the Disability Claims Process as a Physician

Navigating the Disability Claims Process as a Physician

Disability Insurance
Learn how understanding your policy, filing early, and more can help you navigate the disability claims process as a physician.
July 8, 2024
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Navigating-the-Disability-Claims-Process-as-a-Physician.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-07-08 15:10:262025-05-01 15:37:43Navigating the Disability Claims Process as a Physician
Person talking with therapist

Disability Insurance and Mental Health: What Physicians Should Know

Disability Insurance
Gain insight into the relationship between disability insurance and mental health for physicians and medical professionals.
June 20, 2024
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Person-talking-with-therapist.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-06-20 16:10:222025-05-01 15:37:43Disability Insurance and Mental Health: What Physicians Should Know

The Role of Physician Disability Insurance in Protecting Your Practice and Family

Disability Insurance
Learn about the significance of physician disability insurance and how it safeguards your practice and loved ones.
May 23, 2024
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Physician-with-patient.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-05-23 18:25:192025-05-01 15:37:43The Role of Physician Disability Insurance in Protecting Your Practice and Family
Person with crutches sitting on couch doing research on computer

The Long-Term Benefits of Short-Term Disability Insurance for Physicians

Disability Insurance
Explore some of the long-term benefits of short-term disability insurance for physicians and learn how to protect your financial future.
May 22, 2024
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Person-with-crutches-sitting-on-couch-doing-research-on-computer.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-05-22 15:06:082025-05-02 07:40:09The Long-Term Benefits of Short-Term Disability Insurance for Physicians

Navigating Disability Insurance for Physicians

Disability Insurance
Learn how to navigate the complexities of disability insurance for physicians and protect your financial future.
May 22, 2024
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Couple-looking-over-disability-insurance.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-05-22 08:11:102025-05-01 15:37:44Navigating Disability Insurance for Physicians
Doctor writing information from a computer

Special Considerations for Physician Disability Insurance

Disability Insurance
Learn the key factors to consider when looking into specialty-specific physician disability insurance.
April 30, 2024
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Doctor-writing-information-from-a-computer.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-04-30 17:36:242025-05-01 15:37:44Special Considerations for Physician Disability Insurance
Doctor asking senior patient in wheelchair to sign insurance policy at home

Factors to Consider for Disability Insurance as a Doctor

Disability Insurance
Explore some of the factors you need to keep in mind when looking into disability insurance as a doctor.
April 30, 2024
https://physiciansrs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Doctor-asking-senior-patient-in-wheelchair-to-sign-insurance-policy-at-home.jpg 1250 2000 AbstraktMarketing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/prs-logo-color.png AbstraktMarketing2024-04-30 17:22:352025-05-01 15:37:44Factors to Consider for Disability Insurance as a Doctor
PreviousNext

Categories

  • Disability Insurance
  • Financial Planning
  • Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • News
  • Onboarding
  • Physician Resources
  • Retirement Planning
  • Taxes
  • Uncategorized

Contact Us

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

“You dedicate your life to helping patients with their physical health; Let us help you with your financial health.”

Our Services

Insurance

Tax Service

Financial Planning

Investment Management

Who We Help

Locations

AUSTIN – (512)-334-6200
6500 River Place Blvd, Bldg 7, Suite 250 Austin, TX 78730

FORT WORTH
John Peter Smith Hospital 1500 South Main St. Room 02-0181 Fort Worth, TX 76104

GALVESTON
Rebecca Sealy Building 404 St Mary’s Blvd Suite 5.408 Galveston, TX 77550

 
 
This site may contain links to articles or other information that may be on a third-party website. Advisory Services Network, LLC is not responsible for and does not control, adopt, or endorse any content contained on any third-party website.

Advisory services offered through PRS Investment Advisors, a Member of Advisory Services Network, LLC. Tax services and insurance products offered through Physician’s Resource Services. Advisory Services Network, LLC and Physician’s Resource Services are not affiliated.

Website by Abstrakt Marketing Group © 2022
  • Privacy Policy
  • Sitemap
  • Linkedin
  • Facebook
Scroll to top
  • Book a Meeting

Robin Bales – AGENT

Robin has owned a Commercial Leasing Company providing financing to doctors and other operators for their equipment beginning in 2007. After the global crash of 2008, she went to work for NYL and spent 3 years there working with other entrepreneurs securing their retirement future and safeguarding their personal asset risks. Robin opened her own agency in 2017 Legacy by Design and has run a national firm coast to coast with 50-70 agents. Today the agency is much smaller serving 5 agents who share the same vision and passion for our clients focusing on health insurance, Medicare, and annuities.

Robin is most connected to ethos of PRS mission to improve the lives of doctors and their families. Supporting those who run the leading infrastructure of our country.

Robin has been married for 22 years to her husband Steven. Together they have 3 girls and have built a family with strong values and commitment to each others successes. Robin’s family are home bodies by nature and enjoy their 3 dogs hanging in living room or kitchen.

Karli Allen – HEAD OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Karli is a graduate of The Master’s University in Santa Clarita, CA, and has a business degree with emphases in accounting, finance, and management. Karli has been in the financial services industry since 2014 and joined the PRS team in 2018.

Karli oversees investment and financial planning operations and assists with the onboarding and service of the firm’s advisory clients.  Karli was a key part of our firm’s custodial transition to Fidelity in 2019 as part of our decision to become an independent investment advisory firm.  Before joining PRS, Karli worked in personal financial planning in Orange County, California.  She also holds a FINRA Series 65 license. Karli is grateful to be a part of such an amazing team.

Outside of work, Karli enjoys traveling, playing golf, and spending time with her husband and their goldendoodle.

Gabriela Chavez – ANALYST

At Physicians Resource Service Gabby plays a pivotal role in Paul’s advisory team, staying in close contact with clients, driving business development, and lending a hand in daily operational tasks. Additionally, she collaborates with CPA Erin Anderson to prepare tax returns, conduct withholding reviews and undertake various tasks across the division.

Gabby is currently double-majoring in accounting and finance at the University of the Incarnate World in San Antonio, and she plans to sit for her Certified Financial Planning exam in the fall of 2022. Before transferring to UIW, she attended the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in Edinburg, Texas. Gabby was born in Germany and is Mexican American. She loves to travel and has visited 11 different countries. She has a five-year-old pug named Penny.

Chris Fullbright – FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Chris brings experience in financial services and the perspective of a successful entrepreneur who has launched several businesses. With over a decade in the industry, he has served as both an advisor and in a management role coaching new advisors. Chris attended the University of Georgia and Texas State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences.

He currently holds many financial services licenses and designations including FINRA Group One, Series 6, Series 63, Series 65, Series 7, ARPC, and Certification in Long Term Care (CLTC). In his free time he enjoys being involved in the local community through organizations such as Comfort Crew for Military Kids. Chris is also an active member of Austin Christian Fellowship Church, and enjoys spending time there as well as reading, fishing, and going to sporting events. He is happily married to Monique with two wonderful sons. In addition to serving physicians, Chris specializes in working with special needs families.

Kevin Burris – PARAPLANNER

Kevin received his BA and MBA from Indiana University, earned the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation from the University of Georgia, and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) designation from the American College. Kevin is looking forward to helping physicians live their best life. Kevin enjoys spending time on the lake with his wife, playing golf, and watching Indiana University sports.

Michael Kohles – AGENT

Michael attended Lake Michigan College and Siena Heights University, graduating magna cum lade with a Bachelor of Business Administration, with a major in Finance and minor in Marketing. Michael has been in the financial services industry since 2015 and has experience with multiple insurance verticals. Michael is excited to help physicians achieve their financial goals by providing insurance solutions. Michael is married to Erin and has 4 children. Michael also enjoys reading, golfing, playing poker, learning, and traveling.

Erin Kohles – UNDERWRITING PROCESSOR

Erin supports our advisors and clients during the insurance underwriting process in multiple ways. On a given day, she helps by processing applications, tracking and following up on open cases, and answering client questions. She appreciates the part she plays in helping clients prepare for the future, and she strives to make the process as simple and efficient as possible.

Erin has been in the insurance industry for two years and brings with her six and eight years of experience in accounting and quality control, respectively. She graduated from Ball State University and has her life & health and property & casualty insurance licenses. In her free time, she enjoys cheering on her two boys who play basketball, soccer, and baseball; traveling with her husband; and playing with their Yorkie, Mingo.

Erin Anderson – CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

As a certified public accountant, Erin is a valuable part of our tax division at PRS. She enjoys working with our advisors to develop tax-efficient strategies, and she strives to provide clarity for every client she serves. Erin started her career as an accountant after graduating from Oklahoma State University in 2012 with a master’s degree. She earned her CPA license in 2018. Erin and her husband have two little boys, and they love spending time outdoors as a family and watching OSU football.

Alex Simmons – BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Alex oversees Business Development at Physician’s Resource Services. She works with each department to assist in continually improving PRS so we remain a leading competitor in the industry. Alex graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Energy Commerce. She is a Texas native who loves to spend her free time traveling and taking her pup, Teddi, to the dog park.

Jennifer Khan- UNDERWRITING SPECIALIST

Jennifer is an Underwriting Specialist at Physician’s Resource Services, with an extensive background in customer service and administration. Jennifer grew up in Texas, graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a BFA in Theatre, and spent six years in Chicago performing sketch and improv. She is a graduate of the Conservatory Program at The Second City and iO Chicago. Jennifer and her husband, Qamar, moved to Texas with their dachshund mix, Dobby, to be closer to family, sunshine, and good BBQ.

Cheryl Breeden – OFFICE MANAGER

Cheryl is the Business Manager for the firm and a licensed service assistant. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. She has years of experience in the areas of process management, customer service, benefits, and insurance. Cheryl has three girls — Ashley, Hannah, & Olivia. She brings this experience to our firm where she manages the underwriting and service process. She also manages the business operations for the firm.

John C. Jackson IV – ASSOCIATE FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

John is an agent from Austin, TX, a graduate of Westlake High School and The University of Texas at Austin, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and a Minor in Business Administration. While at UT, John was a 2-Time Captain and 4-Time All-Conference performer for the men’s lacrosse team. While away from the office, John coaches with the Westlake Youth Lacrosse program and volunteers with Austin’s Young Men’s Business League, and Austin Sunshine Camps.

Paul Smith, CFP® ChFC® MSFS – FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Paul has helped his clients in financial, business, and estate planning for over 10 years. Paul is a graduate of Texas State University, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. He has also completed the extensive studies necessary to earn the Certified Financial Planners (CFP®) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) designations. Paul is actively involved in the community through his volunteer work and service on Community Action Board for the Helping Hand Home for Children. Paul is married to Heather and they have two children, Nyla and Hazel.

Richard Cunningham – MANAGING DIRECTOR

For 30 years, Richard has been helping clients reach their financial goals with sincerity and integrity. He works with GME program administrators, individual physicians and their families to help doctors achieve financial security. Richard is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. He studied in Paris at the Sorbonne. Richard supports numerous charitable organizations, is actively involved in Austin Recovery, and he participates in the Leukemia Lymphoma Society as a survivor of CML. Richard is married to Adrienne with two children, Raven and Coates.