Our thoughts

Our previous article discussed how risks associated with mental illnesses may not always be what one might think in both magnitude and causes of mortality, especially if environmental factors such as socioeconomic status and support networks are taken into account. So how can we underwrite these cases better? How can we reach fair decisions quickly and efficiently? Let’s deal with life and critical illness covers first. For a start, many cases of anxiety and mild depression can be regarded as standard risks, so long as the underwriter is happy that the case is straightforward with no adverse features. Even cases…

Mental health and how it affects employment and commercial relationships has come increasingly under the spotlight recently. And maybe not before time. Somatic (that is, physical) illnesses tend to engender sympathy and understanding. But illnesses of the psyche are somehow in a class of their own – and not in a good way. They run contrary to popular perceptions of what is ‘good’; that is, health, fun and success – the sort of things one shares with friends via social media. Diagnoses like anxiety and depression, on the other hand, imply weakness and failure. Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia are difficult…

Re Medical Group, the Netherlands-based life/disability underwriting and claim processing specialist, and SelectX have created a strategic alliance that will enable the two firms jointly to offer powerful new propositions to clients around the world. René Mogge, founder and CEO of RMG, said “This strategic alliance is important for Re Medical Group because SelectX opens new markets for us outside the EU. Furthermore, with the services of SelectX we can offer a complete range of products and services for insurers and reinsurers in every area of medical underwriting and claim handling.” Gary Bundock, Director at SelectX commented “This new partnership…