Swiss Re offers life underwriting manual to help insurers tackle crisis

Global reinsurer Swiss Re is opening access to its life guide underwriting manual to help life and health insurers navigate through the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

The guide is designed to help insurers better understand all risks when they underwrite new business, particularly to address the emerging risks associated with COVID-19, as well as other risk factors such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Swiss Re noted that HIV is an example where a once uninsurable condition is now better understood, and with life guide’s nonbinding underwriting guidance, insurers can more confidently and comfortably offer coverage to people who were previously excluded.

"These are unprecedented times and uncharted waters for life and health insurers, and we recognise the urgent need and value to share our expertise beyond our existing base of registered users," said Paul Murray, head of L&H products for Swiss Re. "Our priority is to use our experience, leadership and perspective to help insurers continue to write sustainable business and preserve the ability to deliver on those promises."