Live Insurance News

California’s New Law Restricts AI’s Role in Health Insurance Decisions

January 6, 2025January 5, 2025 Nordstrom

California is taking a significant step to address public concerns regarding artificial intelligence (AI) in health care. Senate Bill 1120 (SB 1120), signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2024, prohibits health insurance providers from using AI as the sole basis for denying claims. The law aims to uphold the critical role of human judgment in health care decision-making. Striking a balance between technological advancements and ensuring patient care, the legislation is set to have both immediate and far-reaching impacts. AI’s Growing Role in Health Insurance and Its Controversies…

The Future of Insurance – Personalized Policies and Instant Claim Approvals

January 5, 2025January 5, 2025 Nordstrom

Is There Such a Thing as Instant Claim Approvals? Could This Ever Happen? The concept of instant claim approvals might sound like a dream to anyone who’s had to wait weeks—or even months—for their insurance claim to be processed. But as technology continues to progress, the idea of instant claims is no longer pure fiction. Thanks to advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and data analytics, the insurance industry is inching closer to making this a reality. Could we reach a point where claims are approved in seconds?…

Choosing the Right Private Wealth Management Firm for Your Financial Future

January 4, 2025 Guest Author

Key Takeaways: Define clear financial goals using the SMART criteria to guide your wealth management strategy. Assess your risk tolerance to inform your investment strategy—whether conservative, moderate, or aggressive. Conduct a comprehensive review of your current financial situation to identify strengths and gaps. Investment management should align your portfolio with financial goals while considering risk tolerance. Utilize tax planning strategies to minimize liabilities and maximize wealth accumulation. Engage in thorough estate planning to ensure your legacy and wishes are honored. Evaluate firms based on credentials, experience, and client-centric approaches to…

Virginia’s Auto Insurance Laws Are Changing in 2025 — Here’s What Drivers Need to Know

January 4, 2025January 3, 2025 Marc

Virginia drivers are gearing up for significant changes in their auto insurance policies as a new law enforces higher minimum liability coverage effective January 1, 2025. Designed to offer better financial protection, the updates are expected to impact premiums and reshape coverage across the state. Understanding the New Virginia Insurance Requirements Beginning in 2025, the minimum liability coverage limits for Virginia drivers will rise from the current $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident, and $20,000 for property damage (commonly referred to as 30/60/20) to a higher threshold of $50,000 per…

Why Global Insurance Premiums Dropped While US High-Risk Areas Face Rate Hikes

January 3, 2025January 3, 2025 G. Turner

Global Insurance Premiums Fall Amid Competitive Dynamics, But US High-Risk Areas Feel the Heat Global insurance premiums dropped by 0.9% in 2024, marking the first overall decline in seven years. This shift follows a prolonged period of rate hikes that bolstered insurer profitability but attracted new market players eager to claim their piece of the pie. According to a report by Howden, the influx of competitors has driven prices downward, resulting in a more contested landscape. Yet, this competition unfolds against a backdrop of persistent economic challenges, including inflation and…

New Insurance Law in Louisiana Sparks Debate – Winners and Losers Revealed

January 2, 2025January 1, 2025 Marc

Major Insurance Law Reforms in Louisiana

Louisiana Implements Major Insurance Law Reforms for 2025 Louisiana is undergoing significant changes in its insurance landscape with the introduction of a new law that took effect on January 1, 2025. The legislation, signed by Governor Jeff Landry, repeals the unique “three-year rule,” which had long posed challenges for insurance companies operating in the state. This reform aims to make Louisiana a more competitive environment for insurers while sparking concerns among homeowners about protections. Repeal of the Three-Year Rule The three-year rule previously prevented insurance companies from canceling or non-renewing…

Why New Insurance Rules Could Make Weight Loss Treatments Harder to Access

December 31, 2024December 30, 2024 Nordstrom

Independence Blue Cross Restricts Weight Loss Drug Coverage Starting January 1, 2025, Independence Blue Cross (IBX), the largest health insurer in southeastern Pennsylvania, will no longer cover certain weight loss medications, including GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy and Ozempic, when prescribed solely for managing weight. The company will continue covering these medications for individuals with FDA-approved conditions such as Type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease. This change impacts both group and individual commercial plan holders, shifting the full cost of these drugs—ranging from $700 to $1,350 per month—to patients who…