Conclusion
Mental health claims are complex and rarely fit into particular constructs. Acknowledging and addressing multifaceted factors involved in complex undertakings such as the return-to-work process is crucial. The ability to identify these nuances enhances credibility with claimants, employers, and treatment teams. Neglecting to do so erodes alignment and trust and creates conflict. The application of the biopsychosocial model remains instrumental in understanding these complexities and implementing comprehensive solutions.
The insights gained from RGA’s Global Mental Health Survey highlight that insurers have a significant role in shaping the mental health landscape. By proactively addressing the gaps in education, communication, and claim complexity, the insurance industry can contribute to improved mental health support and return-to-work processes. The commitment to bridging these gaps not only leads to smoother claims processes but also reaffirms the industry’s dedication to policyholders’ overall wellbeing.
Contact us to learn more about survey insights and how RGA is helping insurers meet the growing demand for mental health coverage.
Further Learning: Behavioral Science Promotes Return to Work
Behavioral science techniques can help facilitate return to work after a temporary disability. However, insurers often find it hard to effectively implement these techniques into a claims journey. They must be embedded throughout the process, and claims handlers play an important role in their delivery.
RGA partnered with a client to conduct a trial on the topic. The results showed that, for a small investment of time, best-practice behavioral science techniques can be incorporated into every phase of the claims process, from filling out claims forms and triaging cases to communications, whether on the phone or via email and SMS (text) messages, between claims assessors and claimants.
Click here to learn more about RGA’s Behavioral Science Toolkit that includes a number of training modules, a webcast, and a podcast, which provide insights into opportunities to improve the claims experience for insurers and their customers.