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Mutual Matters: Redefining Medical Malpractice Defense—The Power of Many

By: William S. Kanich, MD, JD

MagMutual PolicyOwners:

I know firsthand the fear and uncertainty that come with facing a medical malpractice defense case. Even when you’ve practiced good medicine, a lawsuit can make you question everything—your judgement, your reputation, even your future. It’s an isolating experience that leaves a lasting mark on any healthcare provider.  Across the country, medical malpractice claims are becoming more severe and verdicts larger than ever. At MagMutual, we’ve seen those realities up close. We understand what’s at stake. It’s not just your reputation or your practice, but also your peace of mind. And in moments like these, our commitment is absolute: support and guide you every step of the way.

Why Defense Must Evolve

The way healthcare providers are defended hasn’t kept pace with how medicine—or litigation—has changed. Cases are more complex, verdicts are more severe and the toll on providers is greater than ever. Yet most defense models still operate in silos, with attorneys, claims representatives and other specialists each focused on their own piece of the case instead of the full experience of the healthcare provider. 

That approach is no longer enough. In today’s medical malpractice environment, truly defending healthcare providers and organizations requires more than legal expertise alone. It takes coordinated expertise that addresses every dimension of a case, from legal and strategic to emotional and logistical. 

At MagMutual, we saw an opportunity to evolve what defense could be: to build something more connected, proactive, data-informed and human. That vision became MyDefense™, a model designed to protect healthcare providers with the same level of expertise and compassion they bring to their patients.

MyDefense and the Power of Seven

MyDefense is more than a legal service. It’s a fully integrated medical malpractice defense system that protects providers through every stage of a claim. Each case draws on seven distinct disciplines—law, data, psychology, communication,  negotiation and more—working together to deliver stronger outcomes and better experiences.

These disciplines merge deep legal skill with data insight, behavioral science and emotional intelligence. It’s this collective expertise that makes MyDefense unique: a system built to anticipate challenges, align strategies and deliver both exceptional results and genuine care.

:Infographic illustrating the seven disciplines of MyDefense: lawyers and analysts, data scientists, jury specialists, communication experts, psychologists, negotiation strategists, and emotional and logistical support specialists.
  • Legal counsel and analysts lead the case and guide healthcare providers through every stage of litigation.
  • Jury consultants identify bias and improve courtroom strategy.
  • Communication and presentation experts craft persuasive, accessible storytelling that helps juries understand complex medicine.
  • Psychologists provide emotional support and help healthcare providers navigate the stress of litigation.
  • Data scientists analyze patterns in medical malpractice cases to shape smarter, evidence-based strategies. 
  • Negotiation strategists guide resolution discussions when settlement serves the PolicyOwner’s best interest.
  • Emotional and logistical support specialists ensure healthcare providers are cared for personally and practically throughout the process.

What MyDefense Means in Practice

By uniting MagMutual’s law firm with our claims experts under one model, we’ve made it possible for providers to connect with legal guidance earlier, often within hours of reporting a claim. This integration allows every case to move forward with seamless coordination and shared perspective from the very beginning. Attorneys, analysts and specialists now work side by side from the start, sharing insight, aligning tactics and anticipating challenges before they arise.

 Diagram showing how MagMutual’s MyDefense units law firm and claims experts into one integrated medical malpractice defense model.

This model isn’t a linear process. It’s a connected system where every element strengthens the others. Strategy is shaped by claims data; emotional and logistical support are coordinated with the legal team; and communication remains clear throughout. The result is a defense that’s proactive, consistent and built around each provider’s unique needs. 

Through MyDefense, what once operated separately now functions as one, delivering earlier engagement, stronger collaboration and a better experience for every PolicyOwner.

What This Experience Feels Like for PolicyOwners

A malpractice claim can be one of the most stressful experiences of a provider’s career. With MyDefense, that journey feels different. From the first conversation to final resolution, PolicyOwners experience greater clarity, steadier support and more confidence at every step. 

Each case is managed by a team that understands both the legal complexities and the human side of what’s at stake. Providers are supported by people who listen, respond and stand beside them throughout the process, translating complex litigation into clear, compassionate communication. 

That’s what MyDefense delivers: a smarter, more intentional defense created specifically for the people it protects.

The Mutual Difference

At MagMutual, our commitment has always gone beyond insurance. As a mutual company, we exist to protect and advocate for the providers we represent.

MyDefense isn't defined by a single function. It’s powered by a coordinated team working in unison around each PolicyOwner. That collaboration reflects who we are as a mutual company, and MyDefense is a direct expression of that strength—a model that stands shoulder to shoulder with healthcare providers, safeguarding people, careers and the practice of medicine.

Together, MagMutual’s insurance, advice and defense offerings represent the power of many, a promise to not only insure you but also empower and defend you.

For me, that’s what makes this work so meaningful. When a healthcare provider feels understood and equipped to keep doing what they do best, that’s when MagMutual is at its strongest. And that’s what the future of protecting healthcare providers should be. 

Learn more about how MyDefense protecting healthcare providers through every stage of a claim.

Explore MyDefense

Sincerely, 
Bill Kanich, MD, JD

November 2025

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Disclaimer

The information provided in this resource does not constitute legal, medical or any other professional advice, nor does it establish a standard of care. This resource has been created as an aid to you in your practice. The ultimate decision on how to use the information provided rests solely with you, the PolicyOwner.