Why Insurance Matters
Even with the highest standards of care, accidents can happen—especially when teaching people affected by cancer. Professional liability insurance is an essential part of maintaining a safe, ethical, and professional Oncology Yoga practice.
It protects both you and your students in the event of injury, misunderstanding, or claim—whether you’re teaching in a hospital, studio, community center, private home, or online.
Insurance provides peace of mind, financial protection, and professional credibility so you can focus on what matters most: providing safe, supportive, and healing experiences.
Professional Standard: Carrying active professional liability insurance is part of your ethical responsibility as a yoga4cancer Certified Teacher. Hospitals, nonprofits, and studios may require proof of insurance before you can teach.
Review the below to source the right coverage for you:
1. General & Professional Liability Insurance
This is the core coverage needed. It protects against claims of bodily injury, negligence, or professional error.
- Coverage should include:
- Teaching individuals with medical conditions (including cancer)
- Hands-on adjustments (if performed)
- Online/virtual sessions
- Teaching in studios, hospitals, gyms, or private homes
Tip: When applying, describe your role as a certified Oncology Yoga professional trained in evidence-based, adaptive movement for individuals affected by cancer. This ensures your work is classified correctly.
2. Product Liability Insurance (if using props/equipment)
Covers claims related to injury from use of props like blocks, straps, or chairs—especially in therapeutic settings.
3. Abuse/Misconduct Coverage
Some organizations require this for teaching in hospitals or nonprofit settings. It protects against false allegations of misconduct.
4. Optional Add-Ons
- Worldwide Coverage (if teaching internationally)
- Rental Damage Insurance (if renting space)
- Business Personal Property (if you use your own props)
Trusted Insurance Providers
Always confirm that Oncology or medical-specific yoga is explicitly covered before purchasing.
| Provider | Coverage Highlights | Region |
|---|---|---|
| BeYogi | Includes coverage for teaching individuals with cancer, online and in-person | U.S. |
| Philadelphia Insurance Companies | Common for hospital or institutional contracts | U.S. |
| Alternative Balance | Designed for yoga therapists and wellness professionals | U.S. |
| Insurance Canopy | Covers online and hybrid sessions | U.S. |
| Alliant (via Yoga Alliance Marketplace) | Discounted for Yoga Alliance members – TIP: verify HIPAA compliance | U.S. |
| BGi | For yoga professionals in the UK, EU, and South Africa | UK / EU |
| Gallagher | For yoga teachers and wellness practitioners in Canada | Canada |
Always confirm that your policy covers:
- Teaching individuals with medical conditions or cancer
- Online and in-person instruction
- Hands-on or assisted adjustments (if applicable)
Insurance Application Checklist
Before applying for coverage, prepare the following:
- Your yoga4cancer Certificate (PDF copy)
- Statement of professional role and scope
- Confirmation that “Oncology Yoga” is included in coverage
- Proof of insurance (COI) available for institutions or partners
Final Guidance
Carrying insurance doesn’t just protect you—it reinforces your credibility, professionalism, and care for your students. It ensures that the yoga4cancer community maintains a consistent standard of safety and ethics across all settings.
Remember, you are teaching people living with and beyond cancer. This population deserves—and depends on—teachers who are trained, informed, and responsibly protected.