technology

As the life insurance industry continues to look for innovative ways to respond to the changing needs, expectations and buying preferences of 21st century consumers, insurance companies and their reinsurance partners have responded by expanding research and development capabilities. As a key area of research within the industry, cross-functional R&D teams of actuaries, underwriters, data scientists and statisticians are focusing on providing value-added intelligence and advice around the mortality risk implications of using risk scores and new data sources in accelerated and enhanced underwriting programs.

Click on "Issue 107, June." Article states on page 10

Much is said about blockchain technology, and how it will change how business operates. As with any new technology, a gap exists between understanding the theory and seeing the practical applications. But it should be no surprise that blockchain technology is already being used to secure the digital electronic health record (EHR) of large numbers of people in Europe.

Disruptive innovation are revolutionizing many industries. How will it affect insurance?

Click on "Issue 88, July." Article states on page 20.

Is underwriting like a still photograph, a movie, or virtual reality? Georgio Mosis of RGAx Asia shares a fresh perspective.

Facial analytics may play a key role in calculating future life insurance premiums thanks to a North Carolina technology firm claiming its platform returns lifespan estimates more accurate than traditional methods.

Slides from presentations delivered at the 2017 Southeastern Home Office Underwriters Association have been posted at the SEHOUA site. Presentations include:

• Analytics – Mind versus Matter
• Pharmacogenetics: Relevant or Not?
• Give Credit Where Credit is Due – The Value of Credit in Life Underwriting
• The Underwriting Profession at Risk: 4 Steps to Manage Career Morbidity
• Underwriting the High Mileage Applicant
• The Meaning of Underwriting
• Life after Bariatric Surgery
• Mental Illness Update

Jennifer Golbeck, Director of the Human-Computer Interaction Lab at the University of Maryland speaks with LIMRA’s Eric Sondergeld about “Big Social Data” and how to balance the need by industry for insight with the desire for privacy by consumers.

RGA's Raimondo Guerra demystifies data and discusses the future of insurance. Questions or comments?

New, technology-driven changes in the ways people live their lives are prompting revolutions across industries. The insurance sector must adapt to these changing needs if it is to remain relevant to customers.

Matthew Edwards, head of mortality and longevity in Willis Towers Watson’s life insurance practice, (pictured below) explains why wearable technology presents a fascinating opportunity for insurers, and related sectors such as the private health sector.