Revolutionising Life Insurance: Digital PMARs and Next-Gen Underwriting
Revolutionising Life Insurance: Digital PMARs and Next-Gen Underwriting
The insurance industry has long grappled with the cumbersome, manual process linked to securing life coverage. According to the Financial Services Council, this results in many Australians underinsured or entirely uninsured. A primary bottleneck in the process has been the PMAR, integral in determining a client’s eligibility but slowed by reliance on paper-based systems that depend on clinicians' schedules and priorities.
Acenda's collaboration with EQ Pathology aims to slash these delays using Australia's first digital PMAR. Unlike its traditional counterparts, this digital format is custom-tailored to underwriter requirements, enabling precise information collection essential for decision-making. The creation of a fully integrated, digital underwriting engine allows applications requiring medical evidence to be processed swiftly and efficiently, cutting down wait times drastically.
The integration of UnderwriteMe's cutting-edge insurtech solutions further enhances Acenda's capabilities. Automating simpler cases ensures that underwriting teams focus only on complex scenarios, optimising their expertise and improving customer service. In previous deployments, this technology has reduced policy approval times significantly while boosting policy uptake.
For consumers, faster processing translates to more timely access to insurance, addressing the prevalent underinsurance gap. This technological innovation not only streamlines the process but also ensures data security via secure API transfers, eliminating the risks associated with transferring sensitive information through less secure means.
Acenda's pioneering approach illustrates a broader trend in the insurance industry demanding innovation in service delivery. By implementing a fully digital PMAR and decisioning engine, the company sets a new industry standard, underpinning its ambition for a more efficient, transparent, and customer-centric insurance experience.
Looking forward, this advancement is likely to drive a wider industry shift towards digital solutions, not only improving turnaround times but also laying the groundwork for smarter and fairer decision processes. As these innovations continue to evolve, the life insurance sector in Australia is on a clear path to meeting the immediate needs of its consumers efficiently and effectively, ultimately bridging the underinsurance gap and enhancing trust in the industry.
Published:Monday, 11th Aug 2025
Source: Paige Estritori
Share this news item:
| ASIC Considers Action as Professional Indemnity Insurance Transparency Falls Short 12 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has voiced apprehension about the transparency of professional indemnity (PI) insurance amongst holders of the Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSLs). This concern arises from a recent market overview conducted to analyze PI insurance for AFSLs offering personal advice to retail clients. - read more |
| Traveller Triumphs in Insurance Dispute Over Unexpected Medical Detour 11 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori A savvy traveller has successfully challenged an insurance decision after having to make an impromptu stay in London due to a medical emergency. This came after the man needed urgent medical attention following a cat bite he sustained in Albania, which sent him to the UK capital for essential treatment. - read more |
| Revolutionising Life Insurance: Digital PMARs and Next-Gen Underwriting 11 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori In the age of instant digital services, where everything from basic necessities to luxury items can be delivered in a blink, the life insurance sector in Australia is poised for a transformative change. Historically plagued by lengthy processing times, the sector faces a persistent underinsurance gap, with over a million Australians lacking adequate life protection. The introduction of a digital Personal Medical Attendant Report (PMAR) by Acenda, formerly MLC Life, marks a significant stride towards addressing this challenge. - read more |
| Victorian Court Approves $34 Million Add-On Insurance Settlement 08 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori A Victorian court has ratified a $34 million settlement in a class action involving add-on insurance products sold by Suncorp. This settlement culminates the legal proceedings surrounding alleged unlawful sales practices. - read more |
| Creating a Financial Safety Net: Insurance and Savings Tips for Young Families Welcome to our blog! For young families, securing your future often requires careful planning and prudent financial decisions. One of the most crucial steps you can take in this journey is creating a financial safety net. - read more
|
| Smart Strategies to Lower Your Health Insurance Premiums In today's rapidly changing health insurance landscape in Australia, keeping track of costs and coverage can be daunting. Many Australians find themselves grappling with high premiums that seem to increase year after year. - read more
|
| Finding Accidental Coverage When Comprehensive Income Protection Isn't an Option Income protection is an integral part of maintaining your financial security, especially in the event that unforeseen illnesses or injuries prevent you from working. Enabling you to receive a percentage of your regular income, this type of insurance provides a safety net, ensuring that you can continue to cover your living expenses and financial obligations whilst recovering. - read more
|
| Why Every Australian Needs Income Protection Insurance Income protection insurance is designed to provide financial support if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. It ensures that you continue to receive a portion of your income, allowing you to cover your living expenses and maintain your standard of living during difficult times. - read more
|
The periodic amount paid for the purchase of insurance.