March 13, 2025 by matray

The Cooperative of American Physicians (CAP) is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Founded in 1975 by a group of nine California physicians, CAP was established to address the escalating costs of medical malpractice coverage through its Mutual Protection Trust (MPT), rated A+ (Superior) by AM Best for 18 consecutive years.

Since its inception, this physician-owned and governed organization has seen remarkable growth in membership and the breadth of services offered. Today, CAP provides exceptional medical professional liability coverage to 13,000 physicians statewide.

“Over the years, CAP has supported tens of thousands of doctors in their mission to provide the highest quality care to their patients while managing successful practices,” said CAP chief executive officer Sarah Scher. “Today, in this continually evolving healthcare landscape, our work is far from finished and our commitment to the success of independent practitioners remains unwavering.”

In addition to their core MPT coverage, CAP physician members receive complimentary risk and practice management services, human resources support, a 24-hour adverse event hotline, access to customized business and personal insurance coverages, a group purchasing program and more.

“CAP is proud to honor a 50-year legacy of providing California physicians with more than just outstanding medical professional liability coverage. Since day one, CAP’s physician leaders have always represented the best interests of its members, ensuring they are well protected and have the resources they need to face challenges head-on,” said CAP president and chair and MPT chair Stewart Shanfield, MD.

To commemorate this milestone anniversary, CAP has published a special edition of Physician Today, its risk and practice management magazine exclusively for private practice doctors. CAP is also hosting several celebratory events across the state, offering free commemorative gifts, and sharing an inside look at the organization’s history and its relevance to California physicians in a series of communications and resources throughout the year. To learn more, visit www.CAPphysicians.com/50Years.