Manufacturers, importers and distributors of healthcare consumables and medical products.

Where the sector’s exposures differ

The label medical product can cover very different goods. Sterile dressings, syringes, protective items and general hospital supplies should be itemised rather than grouped into a vague business description. Intended claims, sterility, patient contact and private-label roles affect the information an insurer needs.

Insurance covers to assess

Consider products liability, recall, stock and transit, and professional services where technical advice is provided. Insurer acceptance should cover the actual product range. Warranty refunds, routine replacement and contractual performance commitments may fall outside liability insurance.

Policy features to discuss

We can discuss the insured activities, insured entities, territorial limits, defence costs, excesses and aggregate limits offered by insurers. If a customer requests particular insurance, let us know so we can consider the available cover. Legal interpretation, drafting and negotiation of contracts should be handled by your legal adviser.

An illustrative exposure

A consumable batch is alleged to have a packaging problem. Hospitals seek collection and replacement while a user alleges injury. These costs should not be assumed to be covered by one section.

This is a hypothetical example to explain cover questions, not a Mercantile client case or a paid claim. The proposed policy must be assessed before assuming any response.

Information needed for a quotation

Product categories and intended claims; sterile status and expiry dates; suppliers and brand ownership; batch identification; warehouse conditions; exports and hospital contracts.

Also provide turnover, wages, subcontractor and labour-hire costs, the legal entities to insure, existing schedules and wordings, claims or known circumstances, and planned changes. A clear activity breakdown helps us approach suitable markets and compare the terms offered.

Common questions

Why does an insurer need a product list?

The term medical products can describe many different goods. An itemised list helps the insurer assess the products you manufacture, import or supply.

Can Mercantile review existing insurance?

Yes. Send the schedule and wording together with a description of your activities and key contracts. We can examine significant gaps and approach suitable insurers, subject to their appetite and acceptance. We assist Australian businesses from our Norwest NSW office.

Related insurance sectors

Our service focuses on insurance placement and policy cover. Product classification, approvals and regulatory compliance are matters for your regulatory adviser or the relevant authority.

Return to medical device insurance or explore all Life Science insurance sectors.

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Prepared by Mercantile Insurance Brokers. Updated 30 September 2026. General information for Australian businesses. Availability and cover depend on insurer acceptance, policy terms, exclusions, limits and deductibles.