Description: The paper describes a cost-benefit analysis to determine the value of electronic health records (EHRs) in life insurance accelerated underwriting programs. Sample cases from a carrier were underwritten pre-EHR and post-EHR and the mortality savings estimates from risk class changes using EHRs was compared to procurement costs. Results were developed to cover a range of scenarios. Factors to consider for carriers evaluating the cost-effectiveness of using EHRs in their own accelerated underwriting programs are also described.

Description: As term carriers continue dealing with the implementation of PBR, the 2017 CSO mortality table, accelerated underwriting programs and predictive models, one wonders what the next significant challenge will be for the term market. The implications of these changes are yet to be seen fully, and monitoring of the results will be important in the years to come. ...

Description: Chairperson’s views on the changing life insurance industry.

Description: Recently the interest rates have been slowly trending up from the lowest point in August 2020. The focus of this article is on current market trends for long-duration products —including life insurance, annuities, and long-term care insurance —following an extended period of low interest rates, and lessons carriers can learn from similar historical periods of rising interest rates. Innovative and flexible product features will continue to be essential, as the current interest trend may not substantially increase insurers’ portfolio rates. When designing or modifying product features, insurers should consider profitability in a wide breadth of interest rate scenarios and be particularly mindful of the impact that crediting rates and asset durations will have on earnings.

Description: Read the April 2019 issue of Product Matters! published by the Product Development Section.

Description: Chairperson’s column likening product development to campaigning.

Description: Guidance and interpretation regarding reasonable mortality charge requirement of Section 7702, based from IRS Notice 2004-61, 2004-41 I.R.B. 596 of October 12, 2004.

Description: Update on Federal Tax Issues Under the 2001 CSO Mortality Tables

Description: Factors for insurers to consider when developing their first equity-indexed universal life product.

Description: New chairperson’s column discussing his goals for the Product Development Section.