Disability insurance can be hard to decode. And when the benefits physicians value most—like specialty-specific protection or the ability to increase coverage over time—are treated as costly extras, it’s easy to lose sight of whether your policy truly reflects the value of your income. The result? Coverage that’s more confusing and potentially more expensive than it should be.

As a young physician, you know disability insurance is essential for protecting your income, but building smart, lasting protection isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re buying your first policy or supplementing existing coverage, there’s a strategic way to maximize your benefits without overspending.

No one expects to face a sudden injury or illness that puts a pause on their ability to practice and earn an income – even temporarily. The reality? Women are statistically more likely to become disabled than their male colleagues.¹ And without the right coverage, your income, everything you’ve built, and the future you want for yourself and your family could be at risk from the unexpected.

Working as a locum or contractor can be incredibly appealing: greater flexibility, higher pay, and more opportunities to travel or spend time with loved ones. If you’re looking for a better work/life balance, this path might feel like exactly what you need at this stage of life.

You probably know exactly where your investment accounts stand. You might even be running a tight ship on your retirement planning. But when it comes to protecting the one thing that fuels all of it—your income—how dialed in are you?

Many physicians either assume they’re covered through work or bought a policy years ago and haven’t thought much about it since. But here’s the thing: a lot of disability insurance doesn’t go far enough when you actually need it. And unless you’ve taken a close look, you could be exposed in ways that could seriously impact your financial future.

Let’s break this down.

Dr. Carter had a routine.* Morning coffee. Clinic by eight. She had a full schedule of patients who counted on her steady hands and sharp mind. After years of training and sacrifice, life finally felt comfortable. Her income covered the mortgage, her kids’ activities, and the growing retirement fund she’d worked hard to build.

Your skills and expertise are more than just part of your profession—they’re your greatest assets. They’ve shaped your career, supported your goals, and helped you build a strong financial foundation. But your ability to earn an income isn’t guaranteed. An illness or injury could unexpectedly take you away from your practice, creating uncertainty at a time when security matters most.

If an unexpected illness or injury disrupted your ability to work, would your finances be able to support you? Residents and young physicians are especially at risk because they are most likely facing financial obligations such as education loans, mortgage or rent payments, and auto payments, among other expenses.