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The U.S. IDI market saw a significant drop in premiums between 2008 and 2009, and while that drop continued between 2009 and 2010, it was far less severe, according to global consulting and actuarial firm Milliman Inc. Even with the premium drop, there is an underlying strength in claim experience and overall profitability, Milliman concludes in its annual IDI market survey.

What does being a benefits adviser mean to you? EBA wants to spark your creative thinking — and recognize you for your effort.

Health care reform in Massachusetts hasn't lessened the pressure on providers that care for the poor, a new study shows.

Applied Systems, an insurance technology company, is providing a forum where insurance professionals can engage in conversation about insurance, technology and related topics through its blog: http://blog.appliedsystems.com.

It’s the Super Bowl of benefits communications as companies work feverishly to develop and distribute newsletters, booklets, websites, calculator, videos, etc. to inform employees about benefit changes and enrollment deadlines

The U.S. wealth management industry has responded to the economic environment much like a surfer would at high tide, seeking opportunities for lift during the storm. If the economic downturn of 2008-2009 could be compared to low tide, 2010 looked to be the year waves might once again crest to a high point. The wealth manager’s ability to recover was short-lived, however, when a flash crash on May 6, 2010 caused the Dow Jones Industrial Average to plunge 900 points, only to recover within minutes.

The passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was the wake-up call our industry needed. On March 23, 2010, brokers woke up to realize that our livelihood could be wiped out with a swipe of the President’s pen. However, for far too long, many of us were reluctant to face the other threats that existed on traditional business practices. …

Recently, Mark Lacher was asked to present in a sales seminar for a client. But before he began , several people asked, “Why are you presenting to us, aren’t you in insurance?”

Despite a down economy, customers are willing to pay for more quality from their health insurance providers, according to a recent survey. In fact, close to 50% of those queried say they are willing to pay more for quality customer service.

Almost half of employers surveyed in July by Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company say they plan to add voluntary benefits to their plans within the next year.