The global insurance industry is grappling with significant challenges in claims resolution, as supply chain disruptions, rising inflation, and geopolitical tensions hinder the ability to process claims efficiently, according to a recent survey by Gallagher Bassett.
To navigate these obstacles, insurers are increasingly embracing digital solutions such as AI chatbots, data analytics, and streamlined digital claims processing to optimize operations and enhance decision-making capabilities, the survey found.
As insurers adapt to the evolving landscape, the adoption of cutting-edge technologies is becoming a critical strategy for insurers seeking to remain competitive and provide superior customer experiences, Gallagher Bassett noted.
“One of the key opportunities for insurers lies in the advancements in data analytics and AI. These technologies can help improve underwriting precision, streamline operations, and provide personalized customer experiences. By embracing digital transformation, insurers can increase efficiency and cost savings, benefiting themselves and their policyholders,” Gordon Vater, managing direct of GB Technical for Gallagher Bassett, wrote in the report.
The global supply chain has faced significant challenges in recent years, including rising inflation, geopolitical tensions, and energy prices. These challenges have had a substantial impact on insurers’ ability to resolve claims promptly and efficiently, the survey found. Over half of all global insurers have reported a moderate (43%) to significant (19%) impact on their ability to manage end-to-end claims resolution processes due to supply chain disruptions.
In response to these challenges, insurers have implemented various strategies to mitigate delays in claims resolutions. A majority (54%) of insurers have focused on implementing digital claims processing, which streamlines the claims process and reduces a reliance on physical documentation. Additionally, 45% of insurers have adjusted their claims processing timelines to account for potential delays, while 36% have expanded their repair vendor networks to ensure timely access to necessary resources.
The adoption of technology solutions has become a priority for insurers worldwide, with 57% investing in digital tools to improve claims resolution times in the face of supply chain challenges. Insurers are also emphasizing cost-saving measures (53%), diversifying supplier bases (44%), and making changes in vendor management (30%) to navigate the current landscape effectively.
Leveraging Technology and AI for Claims Resolution
AI chatbots and generative AI are proving instrumental in optimizing operations across the insurance industry, with 67% of insurers utilizing these technologies for customer service and 45% for claims processing. Risk assessment (31%) and underwriting processes (25%) are also benefiting from AI integration, the survey showed.
The adoption of AI in claims resolution is well underway, with 44% of insurers currently in the process of integrating AI chatbots or generative AI, and 42% having already successfully incorporated these technologies. Only 10% of insurers said they would not adopt AI for claims resolution.
Nearly all insurers, 95%, said speed and operational efficiency are the expected benefits of AI adoption, followed by lower costs/headcount, 74%, better customer service, 68%, and enhanced claims outcomes, 49%, according to the survey.
Challenges and Best Practices for AI Integration
As insurers increasingly adopt AI technologies to streamline operations and improve claims processing, they face several challenges in implementation. According to the survey, 39% of insurers struggle with seamlessly integrating AI into their business operations, while 26% grapple with ensuring compliance. Data privacy and security concerns are also a significant hurdle for 20% of insurers.
However, despite the perceived benefits of AI, only 37% of insurers are incorporating new technologies for disaster assessment and claims resolution following severe weather events. Among those insurers, notable best practices include utilizing satellite imagery, 3D technology, and predictive modeling to analyze historical weather patterns and claims data, facilitating swift and comprehensive damage assessments, according to the report.
While AI-enabled decision-support tools offer valuable insights, combining them with human expertise yields the best claims outcomes. By integrating AI tools at specific points along the claims lifecycle and leveraging human intervention to uncover hidden patterns and contextual factors, insurers can enhance decision-making and achieve better results.