Vitality has announced that it will launch automated underwriting for personal health insurance policies later this year, with some other new services in the works.
It has already launched, as of October 19, an online cancer risk assessment for all health insurance members, provided via its partner Check4Cancer, and accessible through its Care Hub, and has more developments in the works.
Vitality said the upcoming automated underwriting would help to transform the underwriting experience for personal healthcare (PHC) applications – making it easier for clients to go through full medical underwriting.
It said the change would provide clarity over what conditions are covered and enhance the claims experience by reducing the need for eligibility checks at point of claim.
The two developments are part of several upcoming changes and services that Vitality announced today, aimed to streamline its digital journeys for both members and advisers and increase the efficiency and speed that diagnostics and treatment are delivered.
The online cancer risk assessment takes the form of a questionnaire that analyses and flags the potential risks of a member for developing any of the five common cancer conditions – bowel, breast, cervical, prostate, and skin.
Members will receive the results of the assessment and be guided to any next steps, including discounted screening, where needed.
Vitality will also be launching virtual physiotherapy services later this year.
Following a 7% rise in physiotherapy claims in 2022, Vitality will give its members access to 24/7 support and services through the Ascenti Reach app, alongside the six annual sessions already included as part of their cover.
Later this year, members will also be able to access a personalised exercise plan, daily reminders, progress tracking, and the ability to message a physiotherapist at any time through the app.
And lastly, Vitality will also be offering a digital self-referral to Vitality skin analytics service.
While members have had access to skin analytics since 2015, a new update, available later this year, will enable them to self-refer through Care Hub to this service to review a mole or skin lesion.
Members will submit photos of a skin concern using a dermascope camera, which is sent via post. The image is then assessed by a consultant dermatologist.
Dr Keith Klintworth, managing director of VitalityHealth, (pictured) said: “We know people are using our products and services differently, with consumers wanting to be more in control of their care and have access to on-demand services.
“By continuing to innovate and further embed technology into our processes and the services we provide, we are able to improve the member journey, speed up access and significantly enhance the customer experience, all of which are key motivators for purchasing health insurance.
“The enhancements announced today, will make a big difference to our members, delivering healthcare into the palm of their hand.”