Description: Impaired annuities - a niche product marketed to people at the “at-need” edge of long-term care and has the potential to instruct in bridging the gap for the products now being marketed to people “pre-need.” From Long-Term Care, Dec 2003, Issue No. 10

Description: Product complexity, the services provided by distributors, their method of obtaining clients, and their relationship to insurers all affect the characteristics of in force membership. Selecting the distribution channel(s) for a product can have a significant effect on overall profitability. Total sales, acquisition costs, anti-selection/quality of business, persistency, control over market targeting, etc., will vary based on the initial strategy decisions and future adjustments. Gaining a high-level understanding of distribution channels will help develop an appreciation for the importance of these decisions.