As companies embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&amp;I) efforts, many are realizing their benefit policies and communications can help address health inequities and be more inclusive. From modernizing the language in plan documents, to simplifying fertility care for same-sex couples, to not showing a skinny marathoner in the ads for your fitness challenge, Milliman’s Chief DE&amp;I Officer joined health benefits experts to discuss how plan sponsors can help make sure all beneficiaries get the care they need.You can read the episode transcript on our website. 

As companies embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&amp;I) efforts, many are realizing their benefit policies and communications can help address health inequities and be more inclusive. From modernizing the language in plan documents, to simplifying fertility care for same-sex couples, to not showing a skinny marathoner in the ads for your fitness challenge, Milliman’s Chief DE&amp;I Officer joined health benefits experts to discuss how plan sponsors can help make sure all beneficiaries get the care they need.You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-47-inclusive-employee-benefits-dei-plan-design" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Inclusivity in employee benefits: DE&I concerns in plan design and communication

In this companion episode to our look at SECURE 2.0 and defined contribution (DC) plans, Milliman employee benefits expert Nina Lantz explores how the new retirement law affects single-employer pensions. She talks with Milliman Consulting Actuary William Strange about what it means for retirement that life expectancy is rising more slowly, how companies can incentivize long-term employees, and why a reduction in insurance premiums could make corporate pension plan sponsorship appealing again. You can read the episode transcript on our website . 

In this companion episode to our look at <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-45-secure-2-part-1-dc-plans-contribution-changes" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SECURE 2.0 and defined contribution (DC) plans</a>, Milliman employee benefits expert Nina Lantz explores how the new retirement law affects single-employer pensions. She talks with Milliman Consulting Actuary William Strange about what it means for retirement that life expectancy is rising more slowly, how companies can incentivize long-term employees, and why a reduction in insurance premiums could make corporate pension plan sponsorship appealing again. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-46-secure-2-part-2-single-employer-db-plans" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a> .

SECURE 2.0, Part 2: How the new retirement law affects single-employer defined benefit plans

When the SECURE 2.0 Act passed in late 2022, it introduced 92 provisions affecting retirement plans—and created a long to-do list for plan professionals. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman employee benefits expert Nina Lantz talks with Brandy Cross, our director of defined contribution (DC) plan compliance, about how DC plans are coping. Learn which provisions plan sponsors are addressing first, and why it’s OK to wait before making plan changes. Plus, don’t miss Nina’s companion episode on SECURE 2.0’s impact on defined benefit plans.You can read the episode transcript on our website .

When the SECURE 2.0 Act passed in late 2022, it introduced 92 provisions affecting retirement plans—and created a long to-do list for plan professionals. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman employee benefits expert Nina Lantz talks with Brandy Cross, our director of defined contribution (DC) plan compliance, about how DC plans are coping. Learn which provisions plan sponsors are addressing first, and why it’s OK to wait before making plan changes. Plus, don’t miss Nina’s <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-46-secure-2-part-2-single-employer-db-plans" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">companion episode on SECURE 2.0’s impact on defined benefit plans</a>.You can read the episode transcript on our <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-45-secure-2-part-1-dc-plans-contribution-changes" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website </a>.

SECURE 2.0, Part 1: Tips for DC plans navigating contribution changes

More than three years after the coronavirus shut down the world, the Biden administration announced in early 2023 the end of the U.S. National Emergency and the Public Health Emergency, two declarations that had mandated health insurance coverage of COVID-19 tests and vaccines, among other requirements. As these regulations are now rolled back, what does that mean for employer-sponsored health plans? In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman health experts discuss the implications, from whether to continue paying for at-home COVID-19 tests and when to phase out standalone telehealth benefits, to how to communicate any changes with plan members at this significant moment in the pandemic. You can read the episode transcript on our website.

More than three years after the coronavirus shut down the world, the Biden administration announced in early 2023 the end of the U.S. National Emergency and the Public Health Emergency, two declarations that had mandated health insurance coverage of COVID-19 tests and vaccines, among other requirements. As these regulations are now rolled back, what does that mean for employer-sponsored health plans? In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman health experts discuss the implications, from whether to continue paying for at-home COVID-19 tests and when to phase out standalone telehealth benefits, to how to communicate any changes with plan members at this significant moment in the pandemic. You can read the episode transcript on our <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-44-covid-19-emergencies-ending-and-health-plans" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>.

The COVID-19 emergencies are ending. What does that mean for health plans?

As climate change causes more storms and floods, residents of coastal areas are being forced to move inland—driving up rents and displacing current residents of those regions. Milliman recently studied this issue in a paper called “Climate Displacement in New York City: Making Space for Our Neighbors,” published with Rebuild by Design, a nonprofit that helps communities build resilience. On this episode of Critical Point, two of the study authors discuss the groups most at risk, designing Manhattan to be more like Hong Kong, and how 40% of New Yorkers may be displaced without proactive city planning. You can read the episode transcript on our website.

As climate change causes more storms and floods, residents of coastal areas are being forced to move inland—driving up rents and displacing current residents of those regions. Milliman recently studied this issue in a paper called “<a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/climate-displacement-in-nyc-making-space-for-our-neighbors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Climate Displacement in New York City: Making Space for Our Neighbors</a>,” published with Rebuild by Design, a nonprofit that helps communities build resilience. On this episode of Critical Point, two of the study authors discuss the groups most at risk, designing Manhattan to be more like Hong Kong, and how 40% of New Yorkers may be displaced without proactive city planning. You can read the episode transcript on our <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-43-rising-sea-levels-rising-rents-climate-change" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>.

Rising sea levels, rising rents: How climate change will displace communities

Hear from Milliman’s first female principal, Peggy Pearson, about her path from homemaker (and home economics major) to actuarial leader, all while breaking through the cultural barriers of the time. In honor of Milliman’s 75th anniversary, Peggy sits down with current Milliman principals Angela Bolduc and Kim Guerriero to discuss how she “got into actuarial work on a dare,” her experience as a female leader in a primarily male-dominated field, and what has changed – and still needs to change – for women in the workplace.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Hear from Milliman’s first female principal, Peggy Pearson, about her path from homemaker (and home economics major) to actuarial leader, all while breaking through the cultural barriers of the time. In honor of Milliman’s 75th anniversary, Peggy sits down with current Milliman principals Angela Bolduc and Kim Guerriero to discuss how she “got into actuarial work on a dare,” her experience as a female leader in a primarily male-dominated field, and what has changed – and still needs to change – for women in the workplace. You can read the episode transcript on our <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-42-milliman-75-interview-firms-first-female-principal" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>.

Milliman at 75 – An interview with the firm’s first female principal

Church retirement plan sponsors face unique considerations. While helping to position their clergy and other plan members for a secure future, they also must stay competitive across the wider benefits landscape to recruit and retain lay employees. For a look at how one diocese manages these pressures, Milliman actuaries Jake Pringle and Delbert Zamora sat down with Gary Patton, HR director for the Diocese of Fort Worth, Texas.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Church retirement plan sponsors face unique considerations. While helping to position their clergy and other plan members for a secure future, they also must stay competitive across the wider benefits landscape to recruit and retain lay employees. For a look at how one diocese manages these pressures, Milliman actuaries Jake Pringle and Delbert Zamora sat down with Gary Patton, HR director for the Diocese of Fort Worth, Texas. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-41-church-retirement-plans" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Church retirement plans: A look at the Diocese of Fort Worth

Insurtech never stops evolving. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman actuaries Sheri Scott and Robert Eaton discuss recent trends they’ve seen and opportunities on the horizon--everything from new motion data and technology for improving the customer experience, to coverage for emerging risks including autonomous trucks, cryptocurrency, and even space travel.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Insurtech never stops evolving. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman actuaries Sheri Scott and Robert Eaton discuss recent trends they’ve seen and opportunities on the horizon--everything from new motion data and technology for improving the customer experience, to coverage for emerging risks including autonomous trucks, cryptocurrency, and even space travel. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-40-a-look-at-the-latest-insurtech-trends" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

From AI to astronauts’ insurance: A look at the latest insurtech trends

Front

The VM-20 requirement is no longer hypothetical—it’s here, and it’s had a big impact on principle-based reserving for the life insurance industry. In this episode of Critical Point, we hear how experts are coping. Michael McCarty from Legal &amp; General America shares the direct carrier’s side, while Laiping Wong-Stewart from RGA brings the reinsurer’s perspective. They are joined by Milliman actuaries Uri Sobel and Paul Fedchak in a conversation about the challenges and successes surrounding assumption setting, governance processes, and other changes created with the new regulation.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

The VM-20 requirement is no longer hypothetical—it’s here, and it’s had a big impact on principle-based reserving for the life insurance industry. In this episode of Critical Point, we hear how experts are coping. Michael McCarty from Legal &amp; General America shares the direct carrier’s side, while Laiping Wong-Stewart from RGA brings the reinsurer’s perspective. They are joined by Milliman actuaries Uri Sobel and Paul Fedchak in a conversation about the challenges and successes surrounding assumption setting, governance processes, and other changes created with the new regulation. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-39-vm-20-principle-based-reserving" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

VM-20 for principle-based reserving: Tales from the front office

Learn how SECURE 2.0 could derail or reduce participant contributions, and what plan sponsors and HR professionals need to know about this potential regulation. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Jason Brantley sits down with Charles Clark and Karina Guerrero to talk about surprises in SECURE 2.0 and some of the details below the headlines. They’ll discuss the impact to required minimum distributions (RMDs), catchup contributions, and what this means for companies with non-full-time employees.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Learn how SECURE 2.0 could derail or reduce participant contributions, and what plan sponsors and HR professionals need to know about this potential regulation. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Jason Brantley sits down with Charles Clark and Karina Guerrero to talk about surprises in SECURE 2.0 and some of the details below the headlines. They’ll discuss the impact to required minimum distributions (RMDs), catchup contributions, and what this means for companies with non-full-time employees. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-38-secure-2-surprises-and-obstacles" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Surprises and obstacles SECURE 2.0 could present for plan sponsors and HR professionals

Objectivity matters. Today, more than ever. With no agenda, other than getting it right, Milliman’s Critical Point podcast takes a deep dive into subject matter that affects the health and well-being of people across the globe, from healthcare to retirement security, flood insurance to autonomous vehicles. Through a team of professionals ranging from actuaries to clinicians, technology specialists to economists, Critical Point examines the inherent challenges – and innovative solutions – that Milliman consultants encounter through their daily work around healthcare, employee benefits, risk management, technology, investment consulting, insurance, and financial services.

Hear real-life experiences and get an “inside the company” look at the regulatory examination of principles-based reserve valuations for life insurers. PBR is a new method of determining U.S. statutory reserves in life insurance that better quantifies product risks. Milliman’s Karen Rudolph sits down with Catherine Murphy from John Hancock and Sarah Theis from WoodmenLife, qualified actuaries who will share firsthand experiences around the regulatory review of PBR valuations within their respective companies.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Hear real-life experiences and get an “inside the company” look at the regulatory examination of principles-based reserve valuations for life insurers. PBR is a new method of determining U.S. statutory reserves in life insurance that better quantifies product risks. Milliman’s Karen Rudolph sits down with Catherine Murphy from John Hancock and Sarah Theis from WoodmenLife, qualified actuaries who will share firsthand experiences around the regulatory review of PBR valuations within their respective companies. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-37-regulatory-reviews-around-principle-based-valuations" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Regulatory reviews around principle-based valuations

In this one-on-one conversation with Vicky Nevin, Microsoft’s head of international compensation and benefits, learn how a leading multinational organization is approaching its compensation and benefits strategy and overcoming global challenges. Vicky speaks with Milliman / MBWL global EB leader John-Paul Augeri to share perspectives and priorities for benefits leaders during this time of global change.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

In this one-on-one conversation with Vicky Nevin, Microsoft’s head of international compensation and benefits, learn how a leading multinational organization is approaching its compensation and benefits strategy and overcoming global challenges. Vicky speaks with Milliman / MBWL global EB leader John-Paul Augeri to share perspectives and priorities for benefits leaders during this time of global change. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-36-global-benefits-in-2022" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Global benefits in 2022 – A conversation with Microsoft’s Vicky Nevin

Learn about five trends and creative approaches heading into 2022 for supplemental health benefits. Strategy consultant Christin Kuretich fuses Milliman market intel with a broader lens on society and the shifting nature of the workplace, to make some educated predictions on what we will see change and evolve in the voluntary benefits market. From mental health benefits to pet insurance and product design disruption, Christin gives a high-level overview on emerging approaches to supplemental products. Stay tuned for future episodes in this series, which will take a deeper dive into product design. You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Learn about five trends and creative approaches heading into 2022 for supplemental health benefits. Strategy consultant Christin Kuretich fuses Milliman market intel with a broader lens on society and the shifting nature of the workplace, to make some educated predictions on what we will see change and evolve in the voluntary benefits market. From mental health benefits to pet insurance and product design disruption, Christin gives a high-level overview on emerging approaches to supplemental products. Stay tuned for future episodes in this series, which will take a deeper dive into product design. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/the-workplace-has-changed-how-will-the-supplemental-benefits-market-change-with-it" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

The workplace has changed, how will the supplemental benefits market change with it?

For corporate financial officers who are considering a pension annuity buyout, there’s an opportunity cost to 100% risk transfer, as Milliman’s Zorast Wadia and Bret Linton discuss on this episode of Critical Point. With the passage of the COVID-19 stimulus, many CFOs and plan sponsors likely see the second half of 2021 as an opportune time to de-risk their company’s pension liabilities; but pension risk transfer via an annuity buyout creates the potential to leave money on the table. This episode dives into the differences between pension risk mitigation and transfer, and some of the benefits of plan hibernation over annuity buyouts.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

For corporate financial officers who are considering a pension annuity buyout, there’s an opportunity cost to 100% risk transfer, as Milliman’s Zorast Wadia and Bret Linton discuss on this episode of Critical Point. With the passage of the COVID-19 stimulus, many CFOs and plan sponsors likely see the second half of 2021 as an opportune time to de-risk their company’s pension liabilities; but pension risk transfer via an annuity buyout creates the potential to leave money on the table. This episode dives into the differences between pension risk mitigation and transfer, and some of the benefits of plan hibernation over annuity buyouts. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/pension-risk-hibernation-an-alternative-to-annuity-buyouts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Pension risk hibernation – an alternative to annuity buyouts

In fall 2020, due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the looming flu season, public health experts feared the possibility of a “twindemic”—a one-two punch of Coronavirus plus influenza. But that year, flu cases hit historic lows. The so-called twindemic never happened. Milliman health care expert Ellyn Russo discusses why the volume of flu cases decreased, and what health care systems can learn from this phenomenon. You can read the episode transcript on our website.

In fall 2020, due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the looming flu season, public health experts feared the possibility of a “twindemic”—a one-two punch of Coronavirus plus influenza. But that year, flu cases hit historic lows. The so-called twindemic never happened. Milliman health care expert Ellyn Russo discusses why the volume of flu cases decreased, and what health care systems can learn from this phenomenon. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-33-why-did-the-flu-disappear-in-2020" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Why did the flu disappear in 2020?

In late July, the IRS provided additional guidance on changes to single-employer defined benefit pension plan cash contribution rules under the American Rescue Plan. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman pension consultants Charlie Clark and Casey Baldwin break down the guidance and what it means for pension plans and their plan sponsors. Baldwin and Clark discuss the implications for interest rate relief, amortization rates, prefunding balances, and written elections, among other things. They also share pitfalls to be aware of under this guidance.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

In late July, the IRS provided additional guidance on changes to single-employer defined benefit pension plan cash contribution rules under the American Rescue Plan. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman pension consultants Charlie Clark and Casey Baldwin break down the guidance and what it means for pension plans and their plan sponsors. Baldwin and Clark discuss the implications for interest rate relief, amortization rates, prefunding balances, and written elections, among other things. They also share pitfalls to be aware of under this guidance. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/understanding-irs-202148-guidance-under-the-american-rescue-plan-act" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Understanding IRS guidance Notice 2021-48 under the American Rescue Plan

When it comes to long-term care, what are some of the benefits and challenges of aging-in-place services, and how can these work hand-in-hand with long term care insurance? In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Robert Eaton and Missy Gordon are joined by Char Hu, founder and CEO of The Helper Bees, a healthcare insurtech company that offers care concierge services for LTCI carriers and health plans. The three experts discuss trends in the LTCI market, the rise of virtual care, and how aging-in-place services can improve experience for both policyholders and insurers. They also dive into how predictive analytics plays an important role in understanding aging-in-place needs and long-term care insurance. You can read the episode transcript on our website.

When it comes to long-term care, what are some of the benefits and challenges of aging-in-place services, and how can these work hand-in-hand with long term care insurance? In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Robert Eaton and Missy Gordon are joined by Char Hu, founder and CEO of The Helper Bees, a healthcare insurtech company that offers care concierge services for LTCI carriers and health plans. The three experts discuss trends in the LTCI market, the rise of virtual care, and how aging-in-place services can improve experience for both policyholders and insurers. They also dive into how predictive analytics plays an important role in understanding aging-in-place needs and long-term care insurance. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/longterm-care-insurance-and-aginginplace-services" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Long-term care insurance and the benefits and challenges of aging-in-place

Milliman pension experts Charlie Clark, Vanessa Vaag, and Grant Camp discuss how the American Rescue Plan Act may impact single and multiemployer pension plans, and why pension funding has been integrated into the bill. The conversation ranges from the $86 billion special financial assistance for multiemployer plans, good faith compliance, and what plan sponsors should to consider when taking potential action as a result of ARPA.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Milliman pension experts Charlie Clark, Vanessa Vaag, and Grant Camp discuss how the American Rescue Plan Act may impact single and multiemployer pension plans, and why pension funding has been integrated into the bill. The conversation ranges from the $86 billion special financial assistance for multiemployer plans, good faith compliance, and what plan sponsors should to consider when taking potential action as a result of ARPA. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-30-how-the-american-rescue-plan-act-can-impact-single-and-multiemployer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

How the American Rescue Plan Act can impact single and multiemployer pension plans

Flooding stands out among other natural catastrophes because of the risk it poses to the financial health of the average U.S. homeowner. In this episode, Milliman flood risk experts Dave Evans and Cody Webb are joined by Andrew Netter from Milliman’s mortgage group and Brand Katz from KatRisk to discuss the relationship between flood insurance and mortgage risk, and how that risk can impact financial instruments designed to cover mortgage default exposure. You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Flooding stands out among other natural catastrophes because of the risk it poses to the financial health of the average U.S. homeowner. In this episode, Milliman flood risk experts Dave Evans and Cody Webb are joined by Andrew Netter from Milliman’s mortgage group and Brand Katz from KatRisk to discuss the relationship between flood insurance and mortgage risk, and how that risk can impact financial instruments designed to cover mortgage default exposure. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/understanding-the-impact-of-flooding-on-mortgage-risk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Understanding the impact of flooding on mortgage risk

The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred—and aggravated—a range of mental health and substance use issues in the United States. In this episode, Milliman’s Stoddard Davenport talks with host Lesley Pink about how different populations are faring on the mental health front, how the rising demand for mental health services is being met, and how recent statistics reveal the depth of the problem in this country.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred—and aggravated—a range of mental health and substance use issues in the United States. In this episode, Milliman’s Stoddard Davenport talks with host Lesley Pink about how different populations are faring on the mental health front, how the rising demand for mental health services is being met, and how recent statistics reveal the depth of the problem in this country. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-28-how-has-the-covid19-pandemic-affected-mental-health-in-america" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected mental health in America?

I have not listened to it myself, but I hear it is very good

Review

Critical Point

Host Rebecca Driskill sits down with Milliman’s Stoddard Davenport and Joseph Boschert to discuss their latest research on opioid use in the United States. The conversation includes a discussion about why professionals in the field prefer the term opioid use disorder (OUD) instead of opioid addiction, and touches on the potential for OUD underdiagnoses, how advanced analytics can help predict the risk a patient may develop OUD, and how to keep discussions around this weighty topic patient-centered.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Host Rebecca Driskill sits down with Milliman’s Stoddard Davenport and Joseph Boschert to discuss their latest research on opioid use in the United States. The conversation includes a discussion about why professionals in the field prefer the term opioid use disorder (OUD) instead of opioid addiction, and touches on the potential for OUD underdiagnoses, how advanced analytics can help predict the risk a patient may develop OUD, and how to keep discussions around this weighty topic patient-centered. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-7-diagnosing-and-predicting-opioid-use-disorder" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Diagnosing and predicting opioid use disorder

At the heart of effective risk management is the ability to manage tail events, and the COVID-19 pandemic is raising some quite profound questions for risk practitioners in the life insurance industry. On this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consultants Anthony Dardis, Ariel Weiss, and Chloe Lau discuss enterprise risk management and emerging issues that life insurers may need to confront in the face of the global pandemic, including stress testing and operational risk. You can read the episode transcript on our website.

At the heart of effective risk management is the ability to manage tail events, and the COVID-19 pandemic is raising some quite profound questions for risk practitioners in the life insurance industry. On this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consultants Anthony Dardis, Ariel Weiss, and Chloe Lau discuss enterprise risk management and emerging issues that life insurers may need to confront in the face of the global pandemic, including stress testing and operational risk. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-22-covid19-and-life-insurance-risk-management" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

COVID-19 and life insurance risk management

New trends in dental care and insurance coverage are aimed at improving the patient experience, as Milliman’s Joanne Fontana discusses on this episode of Critical Point. According to the American Dental Association, one-third of adults in the U.S. lack dental insurance, but emerging technologies such as ‘smart’ toothbrushes, teledentistry, and dental therapists are introducing new methods of care, and dental insurtech is rising to meet this changing landscape. You can read the episode transcript on our website.

New trends in dental care and insurance coverage are aimed at improving the patient experience, as Milliman’s Joanne Fontana discusses on this episode of Critical Point. According to the American Dental Association, one-third of adults in the U.S. lack dental insurance, but emerging technologies such as ‘smart’ toothbrushes, teledentistry, and dental therapists are introducing new methods of care, and dental insurtech is rising to meet this changing landscape. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-18-dental-insurtech-insurance-trends-for-care-and-coverage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Dental insurtech: insurance trends for care and coverage

Every country has its own, unique healthcare system, but within these disparate systems there are shared approaches that cross borders and languages. This next episode of Critical Point, which is based on a series of papers by Milliman experts around the world, explores some of those commonalities and shared approaches that we see in healthcare systems globally, and tackles topics such as population health management, risk equalization, and wellness programs in different countries.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Every country has its own, unique healthcare system, but within these disparate systems there are shared approaches that cross borders and languages. This next episode of Critical Point, which is based on a series of papers by Milliman experts around the world, explores some of those commonalities and shared approaches that we see in healthcare systems globally, and tackles topics such as population health management, risk equalization, and wellness programs in different countries. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-19-lessons-from-healthcare-systems-around-the-world" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Lessons from healthcare systems around the world

The COVID-19 pandemic will have far-reaching implications for both short- and long-term healthcare costs in the U.S., as Milliman consultants Pamela Pelizzari, Stoddard Davenport, Doug Norris, and Matt Kramer discuss on this episode of Critical Point. For the past month, Milliman consultants have been building actuarial models to better understand what costs could look like for consumers, hospitals, and to the healthcare system overall. While there are more questions than answers at this early stage, our subject matter experts discuss the possibility that costs may in fact decrease in the short-term, as people avoid non-essential healthcare services.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

The COVID-19 pandemic will have far-reaching implications for both short- and long-term healthcare costs in the U.S., as Milliman consultants Pamela Pelizzari, Stoddard Davenport, Doug Norris, and Matt Kramer discuss on this episode of Critical Point. For the past month, Milliman consultants have been building actuarial models to better understand what costs could look like for consumers, hospitals, and to the healthcare system overall. While there are more questions than answers at this early stage, our subject matter experts discuss the possibility that costs may in fact decrease in the short-term, as people avoid non-essential healthcare services. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-21-covid-19-and-the-implications-on-healthcare-costs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

COVID-19 and the implications on healthcare costs

Managing Puerto Rico’s Medicaid system after Hurricane Maria led to challenges not typically faced by most actuaries. In this episode of Critical Point, host Jeremy Engdahl-Johnson interviews Milliman consultant and Puerto Rican native José Carlo about his work with the Puerto Rico Health Insurance Administration (Administración de Seguros de Salud) directly following the devastation of Hurricane Maria, including Jose’s personal and professional experience on the island as everyone worked to get the healthcare system back up and running after the storm. You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Managing Puerto Rico’s Medicaid system after Hurricane Maria led to challenges not typically faced by most actuaries. In this episode of Critical Point, host Jeremy Engdahl-Johnson interviews Milliman consultant and Puerto Rican native José Carlo about his work with the Puerto Rico Health Insurance Administration (Administración de Seguros de Salud) directly following the devastation of Hurricane Maria, including Jose’s personal and professional experience on the island as everyone worked to get the healthcare system back up and running after the storm. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-8-puerto-rico-after-the-hurricane-managing-medicaid-in-the-face-o" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Puerto Rico after the hurricane: Managing Medicaid in the face of a natural disaster

In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman senior healthcare management consultant Susan Philip talks to host Lesley Pink about telehealth. Around for over 50 years, NASA developed the first form of telemedicine to monitor astronauts in space. Today, telehealth is being used to deliver healthcare in the U.S. to a population that might otherwise have difficulty accessing care. Susan Philip joins Critical Point to provide a primer on telehealth including its uses, regulatory landscape, efficacy, and some of the ground-breaking new devices using telehealth to deliver care.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman senior healthcare management consultant Susan Philip talks to host Lesley Pink about telehealth. Around for over 50 years, NASA developed the first form of telemedicine to monitor astronauts in space. Today, telehealth is being used to deliver healthcare in the U.S. to a population that might otherwise have difficulty accessing care. Susan Philip joins Critical Point to provide a primer on telehealth including its uses, regulatory landscape, efficacy, and some of the ground-breaking new devices using telehealth to deliver care. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-episode-4-a-primer-on-telehealth-in-the-us" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

A primer on telehealth in the U.S.

In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consultants Shea Parkes and Anders Larson provide an introductory look at blockchain for those listeners not already familiar with the technology. The first in a series of episodes on blockchain, Shea and Anders dig into blockchain basics (including what the technology actually is and how it relates to cryptocurrency) in order to set the scene for more in-depth conversations on blockchain and insurance applications. Future episodes in the series will include potential use-cases in insurance, anti-patterns, and alternatives.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consultants Shea Parkes and Anders Larson provide an introductory look at blockchain for those listeners not already familiar with the technology. The first in a series of episodes on blockchain, Shea and Anders dig into blockchain basics (including what the technology actually is and how it relates to cryptocurrency) in order to set the scene for more in-depth conversations on blockchain and insurance applications. Future episodes in the series will include potential use-cases in insurance, anti-patterns, and alternatives. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-episode-3-shea-and-anders-talk-blockchain-part-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Shea and Anders talk blockchain (Part 1)

Using blockchain for insurance continues to grow and develop, but the technology is one with both supporters and detractors. In this episode of Critical Point – the second in our series on blockchain – Milliman consultants Shea Parkes and Anders Larson discuss hashing and public key cryptography. The two concepts are foundational to blockchain, and understanding their function is critical when thinking about how this technology might apply to the insurance industry. Shea and Anders set the stage for a more in-depth look at how blockchain might be used in insurance, including smart contracts, potential use-cases, anti-patterns, and alternatives.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

Using blockchain for insurance continues to grow and develop, but the technology is one with both supporters and detractors. In this episode of Critical Point – the second in our series on blockchain – Milliman consultants Shea Parkes and Anders Larson discuss hashing and public key cryptography. The two concepts are foundational to blockchain, and understanding their function is critical when thinking about how this technology might apply to the insurance industry. Shea and Anders set the stage for a more in-depth look at how blockchain might be used in insurance, including smart contracts, potential use-cases, anti-patterns, and alternatives. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-9-shea-and-anders-talk-blockchain-part-2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

Shea and Anders talk blockchain (Part 2)

What is a critical point and why would we name Milliman’s podcast after this mathematical concept? In this episode, host Jeremy Engdahl-Johnson speaks with Milliman consultants Hans Leida and Doug Norris, who are both healthcare actuaries and math PhDs, about the concept of a critical point and how it relates to Milliman’s work.You can read the episode transcript on our website.

What is a critical point and why would we name Milliman’s podcast after this mathematical concept? In this episode, host Jeremy Engdahl-Johnson speaks with Milliman consultants Hans Leida and Doug Norris, who are both healthcare actuaries and math PhDs, about the concept of a critical point and how it relates to Milliman’s work. You can read the <a href="https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-10-what-is-a-critical-point-anyway" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">episode transcript on our website</a>.

What is a Critical Point anyway?

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