Wara Samar
4th June 2025
Medmarc at 45: Why This Specialty Insurer Remains a Quiet Constant in MedTech’s Shifting Terrain
Insurance may not be the flashiest part of the MedTech ecosystem, but for companies developing high-risk devices and drugs, the right coverage is often the difference between scale and setback. That’s where Medmarc comes in.
Founded in 1979 to serve the unique liability needs of the life sciences sector, Medmarc has quietly built a reputation as a long-term ally to MedTech and pharmaceutical companies navigating product risk, litigation, and regulatory complexity. Now entering its 46th year, the firm continues to specialize exclusively in product liability and errors and omissions (E&O) insurance for manufacturers—choosing depth over breadth in an increasingly fragmented market.
“Our mission has always been to be the superior provider of liability insurance, claims handling, and risk management services to the industry,” says Lynn Carney, Director of Agency and Alliances at Medmarc. “The products and risks have evolved, and we’ve adapted with them—but our purpose hasn’t shifted.”
A Narrow Focus with Broad Impact
At a time when some insurance providers have exited life sciences due to rising loss ratios and unpredictability, Medmarc has leaned in. The company’s portfolio spans early-stage startups and mature multinationals alike, but it avoids being a generalist. That’s by design.
“Three main things immediately come to mind—longevity, expertise, and consistency,” Carney explains. “With over 45 years of experience, we bring depth to every conversation—whether it’s with our distribution partners or our insureds.”
It’s this singular focus that has helped Medmarc establish long-term relationships with both clients and brokers. Some policyholders have been with the company since the late ’70s and ’80s—something Carney attributes to a steady hand and a refusal to chase fast growth.
“Medtech companies don’t want to switch insurers every few years. They want a partner who knows their business and stays in the market through hard and soft cycles.”
Startups Face Steep Learning Curves—Medmarc Helps Flatten Them
For early-stage companies, especially those preparing for clinical trials or entering commercial markets, risk management often lags behind innovation. That’s where Medmarc’s support becomes critical.
“Our risk team frequently uncovers indemnity clauses in contracts that could cripple a young company,” Carney says. “We flag those and help them work with their counsel to renegotiate. We’ve saved some from taking on liability that wasn’t theirs to begin with.”
The insurer also works with founders to shape internal risk protocols, from sales training to FDA compliance, long before an incident or lawsuit arises. Their involvement starts early and often informally.
“We’re not just writing a policy,” Carney adds. “We’re embedded in our clients’ thinking around risk.”
Embracing Complexity: From Proton Therapy to AI
One of the company’s differentiators is its openness to insuring new and complex technologies—often before other carriers are ready to underwrite them.
“When the first proton therapy system came to market, the entire building was essentially part of the medical device,” Carney recalls. “Other insurers balked. We figured it out.”
Medmarc now supports a growing number of clients developing AI-driven diagnostics, digital therapeutics, and connected devices. The risks are different, but the core need—protection against product and operational liability—remains unchanged.
“We don’t shy away from emerging tech,” Carney says. “We analyze it, ask questions, and tailor coverage accordingly. It’s not about standard policies; it’s about fit.”
A Real-World Example of Proactive Risk Management
Carney highlights a recent case where Medmarc’s team provided crucial advice before a deal went wrong. A startup had a contract with a prominent CRO that included terms shifting undue liability onto the young company.
“Our team reviewed it, flagged the issues, and the client was able to renegotiate with stronger terms,” she says. “That’s the kind of support we want to be known for.”
In claims handling too, Medmarc offers support from day one—well before a client meets their deductible. “We don’t wait until the threshold is crossed,” Carney explains. “We help with discovery, deposition prep, and make sure the right people are involved from the start. That early involvement can be critical.”
Presence at MedTech World Underscores Commitment to Ecosystem
As Medmarc prepares to take part in MedTech World Bay Area, California 2025, Carney sees it as more than a branding opportunity—it’s a chance to connect with the next generation of innovators.
“We’re looking forward to meeting the MedTech Innovator 2025 cohort and hearing directly from startups about their concerns and ambitions,” she says. “Events like these help us stay current and accessible.”
Carney is particularly interested in the panel ‘Pitch Perfect: How to Tell a Story Investors Believe’, seeing it as a window into how startups are framing not just their product-market fit, but their operational maturity—including how they plan to manage risk.
“We want to be part of that conversation early, not after something’s gone wrong,” she says.
Quiet But Essential
In a sector defined by disruption and breakthroughs, Medmarc’s value lies in its consistency. For more than four decades, it has remained focused on one thing: helping life sciences companies protect their work, navigate uncertainty, and grow with confidence.
“With innovation comes risk—liability, regulatory, and reputational,” says Carney. “We’re here to make sure those risks don’t become roadblocks. Our clients can move forward knowing someone has their back.”
Could Your Startup Be MedTech’s Next Breakout Story?
If you’re building in healthtech and looking to raise your profile, secure funding, or meet the right investors, MedTech Malta 2025 is the place to be. From 12–14 November, this flagship event brings together global leaders across diagnostics, digital health, medical devices, and therapeutics—all scouting the next wave of innovation.
Whether you’re scaling or just stepping onto the scene, this is your moment to pitch, connect, and gain traction. Register your interest today and move closer to meaningful partnerships and tangible results.
Have questions? We’re here to help: [email protected].
