Critical Point Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:55:55 -0400 http://www.milliman.com/ en-us © 2026 Critical Point yes 2145c9b0-2741-5c87-ad88-3cf634416f47 Milliman, Inc. episodic false 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.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Milliman, podcast, critical point, insurance, healthcare, technology, retirement, property & casualty, risk management, insurtech, financial services Milliman, Inc. https://storage.buzzsprout.com/j60qnkfestj05chhv4wxs5ibf6cq?.jpg Critical Point http://www.milliman.com/ So you want to be a P&C actuary? So you want to be a P&C actuary? As the world changes, the role of property and casualty (P&C) actuaries is changing too, from the emerging risks they study—including climate change and self-driving cars—to the technologies they employ to devise solutions. On this episode of Critical Point, Milliman recruiter Liz Shickles speaks with two P&C actuarial consultants, Zora Law from Milliman and Dane Grand-Maison from partner firm Eckler, about their own career journeys, the influence of AI (hint: it won’t ever replace learning), and advice for students and other professionals who want to enter the field. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> As the world changes, the role of property and casualty (P&C) actuaries is changing too, from the emerging risks they study—including climate change and self-driving cars—to the technologies they employ to devise solutions. On this episode of Critical Point, Milliman recruiter Liz Shickles speaks with two P&C actuarial consultants, Zora Law from Milliman and Dane Grand-Maison from partner firm Eckler, about their own career journeys, the influence of AI (hint: it won’t ever replace learning), and advice for students and other professionals who want to enter the field. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-63-property-and-casualty-actuary Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-18632716 Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:00:00 -0500 2151 Actuary, Property and casualty insurance, Career tips, Career paths, Soft skills, Data science jobs, Math careers 1 63 full false How have healthcare costs changed since 2005? How have healthcare costs changed since 2005? Since 2005, the Milliman Medical Index (MMI) has estimated annual healthcare costs for people covered by a typical employer-sponsored health plan. To mark the 20th anniversary of the report, MMI authors past and present gathered to review how healthcare has changed over the past two decades. They discussed the impact of the Affordable Care Act and the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise in drug advertising and outpatient care, and how trends might change again in the next 20 years.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Since 2005, the Milliman Medical Index (MMI) has estimated annual healthcare costs for people covered by a typical employer-sponsored health plan. To mark the 20th anniversary of the report, MMI authors past and present gathered to review how healthcare has changed over the past two decades. They discussed the impact of the Affordable Care Act and the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise in drug advertising and outpatient care, and how trends might change again in the next 20 years.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-17830802 Thu, 18 Sep 2025 17:00:00 -0400 2145 Milliman Medical Index, Healthcare cost trends, Employer-sponsored health plan, PPO, Affordable Care Act, COVID-19, Drug costs, Outpatient care, High-deductible health plans, Consumer-driven healthcare 1 62 full false Cash balance plans: Why small businesses and professional services firms are adding this retirement benefit. Cash balance plans: Why small businesses and professional services firms are adding this retirement benefit. While the number of traditional pensions has been shrinking for decades, one type of defined benefit (DB) plan is expanding: the cash balance plan. Combining features of DB and 401(k) plans, cash balance plans are particularly well-suited to helping small-business owners and highly paid professionals such as doctors and lawyers save for retirement. On this episode of Critical Point, three Milliman employee benefits experts explain why the number of cash balance plans has recently swelled to 25,000, how plans can be tailored to fit organizations of all sizes, and why this hybrid plan style may help address the looming retirement crisis. 

]]> While the number of traditional pensions has been shrinking for decades, one type of defined benefit (DB) plan is expanding: the cash balance plan. Combining features of DB and 401(k) plans, cash balance plans are particularly well-suited to helping small-business owners and highly paid professionals such as doctors and lawyers save for retirement. On this episode of Critical Point, three Milliman employee benefits experts explain why the number of cash balance plans has recently swelled to 25,000, how plans can be tailored to fit organizations of all sizes, and why this hybrid plan style may help address the looming retirement crisis. 

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-61-cash-balance-plans-retirement Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-17425825 Mon, 30 Jun 2025 16:00:00 -0400 1673 cash balance plans, critical point, retirement benefits 1 61 full false The cost of extreme weather in Europe The cost of extreme weather in Europe In Europe, flooding was the most prevalent—and most expensive—climate peril last year, making 2024 the “Year of the Flood.” On this episode of Critical Point, five authors of Milliman’s annual Extreme Weather in Europe report assess the toll of flooding in their country and the response from insurers, governing bodies, and communities. They discuss what Italy is doing to protect the insurance industry, how construction in the UK and France may be contributing to flood risk, and why new regulations in Romania and the Benelux region may not do enough to keep pace with climate change. 

Don’t miss the full Extreme Weather in Europe report, as well as the related paper, Flood risk modelling in Europe, both available at Milliman.com.  

]]> In Europe, flooding was the most prevalent—and most expensive—climate peril last year, making 2024 the “Year of the Flood.” On this episode of Critical Point, five authors of Milliman’s annual Extreme Weather in Europe report assess the toll of flooding in their country and the response from insurers, governing bodies, and communities. They discuss what Italy is doing to protect the insurance industry, how construction in the UK and France may be contributing to flood risk, and why new regulations in Romania and the Benelux region may not do enough to keep pace with climate change. 

Don’t miss the full Extreme Weather in Europe report, as well as the related paper, Flood risk modelling in Europe, both available at Milliman.com.  

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-60-cost-extreme-weather-europe Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-17103082 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0400 1010 Climate change, Extreme weather in Europe, Insurance regulations, Flood risk, Romania, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, France, UK, Italy 1 60 full false Artificial intelligence and insurance, part 3: Global regulations and trends Artificial intelligence and insurance, part 3: Global regulations and trends AI has taken the world by storm—but not all insurance companies, or countries, are approaching the technology the same way. On this special episode of Critical Point, experts from Munich Re and Milliman who work across five continents come together for a global conversation exploring how insurers and regulators are approaching AI around the world. Plus, don’t miss Part 1 and Part 2 of this series on AI and insurance. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> AI has taken the world by storm—but not all insurance companies, or countries, are approaching the technology the same way. On this special episode of Critical Point, experts from Munich Re and Milliman who work across five continents come together for a global conversation exploring how insurers and regulators are approaching AI around the world. Plus, don’t miss Part 1 and Part 2 of this series on AI and insurance. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-59-artificial-intelligence-global-trends Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-16572036 Tue, 11 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0500 1724 Insurance, Artificial intelligence, Machine learning, AI regulations Singapore, AI regulations Europe, AI regulations United States, ROI on AI, AI and actuaries 1 59 full false How can Medicaid pay for cell and gene therapies? How can Medicaid pay for cell and gene therapies? Cell and gene therapies have been grabbing news headlines, both for their potential to cure rare diseases and for their million-dollar price tags. Milliman pharmacists and healthcare experts explain why state Medicaid agencies are particularly affected and the strategies many are using for predicting uptake and covering these high costs. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website. 

]]> Cell and gene therapies have been grabbing news headlines, both for their potential to cure rare diseases and for their million-dollar price tags. Milliman pharmacists and healthcare experts explain why state Medicaid agencies are particularly affected and the strategies many are using for predicting uptake and covering these high costs. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website. 

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-58-medicaid-cell-and-gene-therapies Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-16264837 Tue, 17 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0500 1557 Cell and gene therapies, Medicaid, Pharmaceutical manufacturers, Manufacturer rebates, High-cost drugs, Risk corridors, Sickle cell disease, Cell and Gene Therapy Access Model, Outcomes-based contracts 1 58 full false Healthcare costs in a presidential election year Healthcare costs in a presidential election year Healthcare costs are a hot topic as we approach open enrollment and the presidential election. In this episode of Critical Point, host Deana Bell sits down with Dave Liner and Jason Clarkson, principals at Milliman and co-authors of the Milliman Medical Index (MMI), to discuss the key drivers of 2024’s healthcare costs. They dive into the effects of government programs like Medicaid and the Inflation Reduction Act, the rising use of weight loss medications, and how these factors are shaping healthcare costs for Americans on employer-sponsored insurance. Learn how policy changes and market trends could impact your healthcare expenses and decisions in the coming year.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Healthcare costs are a hot topic as we approach open enrollment and the presidential election. In this episode of Critical Point, host Deana Bell sits down with Dave Liner and Jason Clarkson, principals at Milliman and co-authors of the Milliman Medical Index (MMI), to discuss the key drivers of 2024’s healthcare costs. They dive into the effects of government programs like Medicaid and the Inflation Reduction Act, the rising use of weight loss medications, and how these factors are shaping healthcare costs for Americans on employer-sponsored insurance. Learn how policy changes and market trends could impact your healthcare expenses and decisions in the coming year.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-57-healthcare-costs-election-year Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-15827503 Mon, 07 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0400 1228 Healthcare Costs, Employer-Sponsored Insurance, Milliman Medical Index, MMI Medicaid, Medicare, Inflation Reduction Act, GLP-1 Drugs, Prescription Drugs, Government Programs, Healthcare Policy, Open Enrollment, Healthcare Inflation, Health Benefits, Healt 1 57 full false Ten questions everyone’s asking about captives Ten questions everyone’s asking about captives Cyber risk, climate change, new pharmaceutical therapies—as companies look for ways to manage increasing costs and unforeseen exposures, captives are a popular mechanism to insure against the unexpected. Around since the 1950s, today there are more than 7,000 captive insurers worldwide, with many headquartered in Vermont, Bermuda, and the Cayman Islands. As these insurance vehicles grow in popularity, Milliman experts answer the top 10 questions everyone’s asking about captives.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Cyber risk, climate change, new pharmaceutical therapies—as companies look for ways to manage increasing costs and unforeseen exposures, captives are a popular mechanism to insure against the unexpected. Around since the 1950s, today there are more than 7,000 captive insurers worldwide, with many headquartered in Vermont, Bermuda, and the Cayman Islands. As these insurance vehicles grow in popularity, Milliman experts answer the top 10 questions everyone’s asking about captives.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-56-ten-questions-about-captives Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-15554099 Mon, 12 Aug 2024 14:00:00 -0400 1379 Captives, Captive insurance, Medical stop-loss, Single-parent captive, Group captive, Property and casualty insurance, Workers’ compensation insurance, Commercial auto insurance, Risk management, Climate risk, Cyber risk, Captive domiciles, Captives FAQs 1 56 full false Increasing diversity in clinical trials Increasing diversity in clinical trials Drugmakers are taking steps to make sure clinical trials include participants from a variety of backgrounds—and they are steadily making progress, as evidenced by new studies of multiple sclerosis and sickle cell disease. Milliman health researchers Ellyn Russo and Chris Page unpack a history of distrust in medical research, the implications of failing to attract diverse study participants, and how simple strategies like rideshare vouchers, childcare, and check-in apps can help expand a study’s reach, so more patients have access to the latest treatments and medical research moves forward.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Drugmakers are taking steps to make sure clinical trials include participants from a variety of backgrounds—and they are steadily making progress, as evidenced by new studies of multiple sclerosis and sickle cell disease. Milliman health researchers Ellyn Russo and Chris Page unpack a history of distrust in medical research, the implications of failing to attract diverse study participants, and how simple strategies like rideshare vouchers, childcare, and check-in apps can help expand a study’s reach, so more patients have access to the latest treatments and medical research moves forward.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-increasing-diversity-in-clinical-trials Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-15279035 Thu, 27 Jun 2024 11:00:00 -0400 1723 Healthcare, Clinical trial, Medical research, Pharmaceutical industry, Drugmakers, Health equity, Sickle cell disease, Multiple myeloma 1 55 full false Why life insurers are investing in private equity and real estate Why life insurers are investing in private equity and real estate Life insurers have historically invested their portfolios in the relative safety of mortgages and bonds, but economic volatility, sticky inflation, and other headwinds have spurred many insurance companies to diversify into alternatives, a trend explored in a recent Milliman paper. On this episode of Critical Point, three of the paper’s authors discuss two alternative asset classes that are particularly attractive to insurers in today’s market: private equity and real estate. They talk about unexpected assets like student housing and storage facilities, the synergy of private equity firms investing in insurers and vice versa, and why many insurance companies continue to hold commercial real estate despite post-pandemic office vacancies.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Life insurers have historically invested their portfolios in the relative safety of mortgages and bonds, but economic volatility, sticky inflation, and other headwinds have spurred many insurance companies to diversify into alternatives, a trend explored in a recent Milliman paper. On this episode of Critical Point, three of the paper’s authors discuss two alternative asset classes that are particularly attractive to insurers in today’s market: private equity and real estate. They talk about unexpected assets like student housing and storage facilities, the synergy of private equity firms investing in insurers and vice versa, and why many insurance companies continue to hold commercial real estate despite post-pandemic office vacancies.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-life-insurers-investing-private-equity-real-estate Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-15041173 Thu, 16 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400 1749 Life insurance,Alternative investments,Private equity,Commercial real estate 1 54 full false Are corporate pension plans making a comeback? Are corporate pension plans making a comeback? For decades, companies with traditional pensions have been freezing those plans and replacing them with defined contribution options to help their employees save for retirement. But IBM made headlines when it restored its defined benefit program in early 2024. Three Milliman pension actuaries discuss this choice, new hybrid DB plan designs, and how plan sponsors can avoid the mistakes that led them to close their pension plans in the first place.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> For decades, companies with traditional pensions have been freezing those plans and replacing them with defined contribution options to help their employees save for retirement. But IBM made headlines when it restored its defined benefit program in early 2024. Three Milliman pension actuaries discuss this choice, new hybrid DB plan designs, and how plan sponsors can avoid the mistakes that led them to close their pension plans in the first place.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-are-corporate-pension-plans-making-a-comeback Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-14632801 Mon, 11 Mar 2024 13:00:00 -0400 1197 Pension plan, Pension plan sponsor, Defined benefit plan, Defined contribution plan, 401(k) plan, Retirement benefits, Retirement savings, Cash balance plan, Variable annuity plan, Company match 1 53 full false Growing the actuarial profession in the developing world: Where the UNDP-GAIN initiative stands after one year Growing the actuarial profession in the developing world: Where the UNDP-GAIN initiative stands after one year Actuaries are vital to the insurance industry and national economies, but the profession is still emerging in many developing countries. That’s why Milliman and the United Nations Development Programme have launched a program to increase actuarial capacity around the world. In this episode, five Milliman volunteers reflect on the initiative’s first year and their work in 10 countries, from Nigeria to Nepal.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Actuaries are vital to the insurance industry and national economies, but the profession is still emerging in many developing countries. That’s why Milliman and the United Nations Development Programme have launched a program to increase actuarial capacity around the world. In this episode, five Milliman volunteers reflect on the initiative’s first year and their work in 10 countries, from Nigeria to Nepal.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-52-growing-actuarial-profession-united-nations-development-programme Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-13981310 Tue, 05 Dec 2023 18:00:00 -0500 2478 Milliman,United Nations Development Programme,Insurance,Actuary,Actuarial exam,Developing country,Developing economy,Climate risk,Risk-based capital requirement,Colombia actuary,Ecuador actuary,Egypt actuary,Ethiopia actuary,Ghana actuary,Nepal actuary 1 52 full false Artificial intelligence and insurance, part 2: Rise of the machine-learning models Artificial intelligence and insurance, part 2: Rise of the machine-learning models In our second Critical Point episode about AI applications in insurance, we drill down into the topic of machine learning and particularly its evolving uses in healthcare. Milliman Principal and Consulting Actuary Robert Eaton leads a conversation with fellow data science leaders about the models they use, the challenges of data accessibility and quality, and working with regulators to ensure fairness. They also pick sides in the great debate of Team Stochastic Parrot versus Team Sparks AGI. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> In our second Critical Point episode about AI applications in insurance, we drill down into the topic of machine learning and particularly its evolving uses in healthcare. Milliman Principal and Consulting Actuary Robert Eaton leads a conversation with fellow data science leaders about the models they use, the challenges of data accessibility and quality, and working with regulators to ensure fairness. They also pick sides in the great debate of Team Stochastic Parrot versus Team Sparks AGI. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-51-artificial-intelligence-machine-learning-models Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-13724230 Mon, 16 Oct 2023 16:00:00 -0400 2303 Milliman,Insurance,Artificial intelligence,AI,ChatGPT,Machine learning,Healthcare,Healthcare data,Health equity,Health inequity,Data modeling,Predictive modeling,Data accessibility,Data quality,Bias in AI,Accelerated digitization,Natural language processi 1 51 full false Artificial intelligence and insurance, part 1: AI’s impact on the insurance value chain Artificial intelligence and insurance, part 1: AI’s impact on the insurance value chain Artificial intelligence has been the buzz term of 2023, evolving at a pace unimaginable when Milliman launched this podcast five years ago. For this 50th episode of Critical Point, we gathered a group of our AI experts to discuss how the technology is poised to reshape the insurance value chain, from hiring practices and actuarial modeling to customer service and communication.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Artificial intelligence has been the buzz term of 2023, evolving at a pace unimaginable when Milliman launched this podcast five years ago. For this 50th episode of Critical Point, we gathered a group of our AI experts to discuss how the technology is poised to reshape the insurance value chain, from hiring practices and actuarial modeling to customer service and communication.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-50-artificial-intelligence-insurance-value-chain Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-13613982 Mon, 25 Sep 2023 14:00:00 -0400 2045 Milliman,Insurance,Artificial intelligence,AI,ChatGPT,Customer service,Institutional knowledge,Actuarial modeling,Human decision-making,IT policies 1 50 full false How extreme heat affects insurance—and how the industry can respond How extreme heat affects insurance—and how the industry can respond Insurers are feeling the heat as another record-breaking summer finally cools off. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman leaders Rich Moyer, Garrett Bradford, and Andi Shah—who have studied the impact of extreme heat from the Middle East to Europe to North Carolina—discussed the ramifications on property, workers’ compensation, health, and other types of insurance. They also talk about data, including available sources for measuring heat risk now, and the data they would like to see to help measure the future effects of a warming planet. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Insurers are feeling the heat as another record-breaking summer finally cools off. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman leaders Rich Moyer, Garrett Bradford, and Andi Shah—who have studied the impact of extreme heat from the Middle East to Europe to North Carolina—discussed the ramifications on property, workers’ compensation, health, and other types of insurance. They also talk about data, including available sources for measuring heat risk now, and the data they would like to see to help measure the future effects of a warming planet. 

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-49-extreme-heat-insurance-industry Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-13384727 Mon, 21 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400 1521 Milliman,Extreme heat,Heat wave,Rising temperatures,Climate change,Insurance,Claims data,Heat illness,Workers compensation,Power grid,Power failure,Blackout,Infrastructure,Heat island 1 49 full false Could pensions save big this year? Experts weigh in on 2023 PBGC premiums Could pensions save big this year? Experts weigh in on 2023 PBGC premiums After 2022’s rollercoaster of soaring interest rates and plunging investment returns, sponsors of single-employer defined benefit plans face a key choice as they calculate the 2023 variable rate premium they’ll pay to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC). Milliman pension actuaries Casey Baldwin and Ryan Cook spoke with Nina Lantz about using the full yield curve, not being afraid of the five-year lock-in, and how switching from the alternative calculation method to the standard method can mean the difference between a $100,000 premium and a premium of $1.7 million.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> After 2022’s rollercoaster of soaring interest rates and plunging investment returns, sponsors of single-employer defined benefit plans face a key choice as they calculate the 2023 variable rate premium they’ll pay to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC). Milliman pension actuaries Casey Baldwin and Ryan Cook spoke with Nina Lantz about using the full yield curve, not being afraid of the five-year lock-in, and how switching from the alternative calculation method to the standard method can mean the difference between a $100,000 premium and a premium of $1.7 million.

You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-48-pensions-2023-pbgc-premiums Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-13351479 Thu, 10 Aug 2023 14:00:00 -0400 835 Milliman, PBGC, Pension plan, Plan sponsor, Defined benefit, Standard method, Alternative method, Yield curve, Interest rates, Variable rate premium, Market losses, Investment losses 1 48 full false Inclusivity in employee benefits: Diversity, equity, and inclusion concerns in plan design and communication Inclusivity in employee benefits: Diversity, equity, and inclusion concerns in plan design and communication As companies embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion 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 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 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 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 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 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. 

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-47-inclusive-employee-benefits-plan-design Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-13031670 Fri, 16 Jun 2023 13:00:00 -0400 1421 Milliman, Employee benefits, Employer-sponsored healthcare, Health plan sponsor, Transgender care, Gender-affirming care, Parental benefits, Adoption benefits 1 47 full false SECURE 2.0, Part 2: How the new retirement law affects single-employer defined benefit plans SECURE 2.0, Part 2: How the new retirement law affects single-employer defined benefit plans 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 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 . 

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-46-secure-2-part-2-single-employer-db-plans Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-12881562 Tue, 23 May 2023 14:00:00 -0400 1257 Milliman,SECURE 2.0,Retirement,Defined benefit,DB plan,Pension,Cash balance plan,Single-employer pension,Employee benefits,PBGC premiums,Mortality assumptions 1 46 full false SECURE 2.0, Part 1: Tips for DC plans navigating contribution changes SECURE 2.0, Part 1: Tips for DC plans navigating contribution changes 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 companion episode on SECURE 2.0’s impact on defined benefit plans.

You can read the episode transcript on our website .

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-45-secure-2-part-1-dc-plans-contribution-changes Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-12876280 Tue, 23 May 2023 14:00:00 -0400 1381 Milliman, SECURE 2.0, Retirement, Defined contribution, DC plan, 401k, Student loans, Roth 1 45 full false The COVID-19 emergencies are ending. What does that mean for health plans? The COVID-19 emergencies are ending. What does that mean for health plans? 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 website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-44-covid-19-emergencies-ending-and-health-plans Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-12691619 Tue, 25 Apr 2023 16:00:00 -0400 1233 Milliman,COVID-19,National emergency,Public health emergency,Pandemic,Health insurance,Health plan,COVID vaccine,COVID shot,COVID test,Telehealth,Employee communications,Health plan communications,Member communications,Mental health parity,COBRA 1 44 full false Rising sea levels, rising rents: How climate change will displace communities Rising sea levels, rising rents: How climate change will displace communities 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 “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.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-43-rising-sea-levels-rising-rents-climate-change Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-12449731 Wed, 15 Mar 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1373 Milliman,Rebuild by Design,Climate displacement,Climate migration,Climate change,New York real estate,City planning,Flood data,Coastal flooding 1 43 full false Milliman at 75 – An interview with the firm’s first female principal Milliman at 75 – An interview with the firm’s first female principal 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 website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-42-milliman-75-interview-firms-first-female-principal Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-12353495 Wed, 01 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0500 2092 Milliman, Peggy Pearson, actuary, workplace, women, history, ERG, glass ceiling 1 42 full false Church retirement plans: A look at the Diocese of Fort Worth Church retirement plans: A look at the Diocese of Fort Worth 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-41-church-retirement-plans Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-12261929 Wed, 15 Feb 2023 16:00:00 -0500 1242 Pension plan, Church pension plan, Church benefits, Priest retirement, Clergy retirement, Pension cost of living adjustment, Pension COLA, Pension lump sum, Church 403(b) 1 41 full false From AI to astronauts’ insurance: A look at the latest insurtech trends From AI to astronauts’ insurance: A look at the latest insurtech trends 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-40-a-look-at-the-latest-insurtech-trends Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-11565216 Tue, 25 Oct 2022 10:00:00 -0400 1191 1 40 full false VM-20 for principle-based reserving: Tales from the front office VM-20 for principle-based reserving: Tales from the front office 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 & 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 & 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.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-39-vm-20-principle-based-reserving Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-11276238 Wed, 07 Sep 2022 07:00:00 -0400 2534 VM-20,Valuation,Principles-based reserves,Principle-based reserving,Life insurance 1 39 full false Surprises and obstacles SECURE 2.0 could present for plan sponsors and HR professionals Surprises and obstacles SECURE 2.0 could present for plan sponsors and HR professionals 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-38-secure-2-surprises-and-obstacles Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-11102793 Mon, 08 Aug 2022 16:00:00 -0400 874 SECURE 2.0,HR,Retirement,regulation,plan sponsors,Required minimum distributions,RMDs,Catchup contributions,Roth contributions,Tracking non-full-time employee hours,DC plan eligibility for non-full-time employees,Spousal approval of savings plan distribut 1 38 full false Regulatory reviews around principle-based valuations Regulatory reviews around principle-based valuations 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-37-regulatory-reviews-around-principle-based-valuations Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-10979597 Mon, 18 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0400 2232 Principle-based reserves, Regulatory review, PBR, Reserves, Examination, Independent review, Milliman, life insurance, Karen Rudolph, WoodmenLife, Sarah Theis, Catherine Murphy, John Hancock 1 37 full false Global benefits in 2022 – A conversation with Microsoft’s Vicky Nevin Global benefits in 2022 – A conversation with Microsoft’s Vicky Nevin 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-36-global-benefits-in-2022 Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-10593092 Tue, 10 May 2022 11:00:00 -0400 1914 Critical Point, Milliman, Microsoft, Vicky Nevin, John-Paul Augeri, employee, benefits, Ukraine, work from home, compensation, MBWL 1 36 full false The workplace has changed, how will the supplemental benefits market change with it? The workplace has changed, how will the supplemental benefits market change with it? 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/the-workplace-has-changed-how-will-the-supplemental-benefits-market-change-with-it Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-10205646 Mon, 07 Mar 2022 15:00:00 -0500 1879 Milliman, pet insurance, mental health, critical illness, benefits, work, caregiver, fertility, insurance, wellness, Christin Kuretich, supplemental, voluntary 1 35 full false Pension risk hibernation – an alternative to annuity buyouts Pension risk hibernation – an alternative to annuity buyouts 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/pension-risk-hibernation-an-alternative-to-annuity-buyouts Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-9439021 Tue, 26 Oct 2021 17:00:00 -0400 728 pension, Milliman, Zorast Wadia, Bret Linton, Employee Benefits, defined benefit, PRT, pension risk transfer, annuities, retirement, plan sponsor 1 34 full false Why did the flu disappear in 2020? Why did the flu disappear in 2020? 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-33-why-did-the-flu-disappear-in-2020 Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-9268766 Mon, 27 Sep 2021 14:00:00 -0400 1862 Covid-19, influenza, healthcare, data, insurance, flu, health care trend, analytics 1 33 full false Understanding IRS guidance Notice 2021-48 under the American Rescue Plan Understanding IRS guidance Notice 2021-48 under the American Rescue Plan 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/understanding-irs-202148-guidance-under-the-american-rescue-plan-act Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-9024810 Fri, 13 Aug 2021 12:00:00 -0400 850 Milliman, Critical Point, podcast, defined benefit pension plan, guidance, IRS, Notice 2021-48, American Rescue Plan, ARP, ARPA, funding, pensions, Charles Clark, Casey Baldwin 1 32 full false Long-term care insurance and the benefits and challenges of aging-in-place Long-term care insurance and the benefits and challenges of aging-in-place 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-31-longterm-care-insurance-and-aginginplace-services Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-8889591 Mon, 19 Jul 2021 17:00:00 -0400 1541 long-term care insurance, LTC, aging-in-place, Milliman, The Helper Bees, Robert Eaton, Missy Gordon, Char Hu, 1 31 full false How the American Rescue Plan Act can impact single and multiemployer pension plans How the American Rescue Plan Act can impact single and multiemployer pension plans 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-30-how-the-american-rescue-plan-act-can-impact-single-and-multiemployer Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-8364330 Mon, 19 Apr 2021 14:00:00 -0400 1166 ARPA, Milliman, Employee Benefits, Pension, regulation, multiemployer, corporate, retirement, Vanessa Vaag, Charles Clark, Grant Camp, American Rescue Plan Act, 2021 full false Understanding the impact of flooding on mortgage risk Understanding the impact of flooding on mortgage risk 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-29-understanding-the-impact-of-flooding-on-mortgage-risk Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-8290384 Wed, 07 Apr 2021 13:00:00 -0400 1739 flood, insurance, NFIP, mortgage, Milliman, KatRisk, FEMA, housing, climatechange, SOA, risk, sea level rise, CRT 1 29 full false How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected mental health in America? How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected mental health in America? 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-28-how-has-the-covid19-pandemic-affected-mental-health-in-america Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-7258834 Tue, 12 Jan 2021 13:00:00 -0500 1661 COVID-19, coronavirus, telehealth, mental and behavioral health, Stoddard Davenport, CDC, regulation, reimbursement, insurance, payers, opioid use disorder, commercial, mental health parity, population health management 1 28 full false Telehealth in the time of COVID Telehealth in the time of COVID COVID-19 has dramatically increased the use of telehealth services across the U.S. In this episode, Milliman’s Susan Philip sits down with Mei Kwong, executive director of the Center for Connected Health Policy, to discuss some of the biggest changes to telehealth in 2020, including regulatory changes around reimbursement and access, provider usage, and ways in which the service has been an integral part of healthcare during the global pandemic.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> COVID-19 has dramatically increased the use of telehealth services across the U.S. In this episode, Milliman’s Susan Philip sits down with Mei Kwong, executive director of the Center for Connected Health Policy, to discuss some of the biggest changes to telehealth in 2020, including regulatory changes around reimbursement and access, provider usage, and ways in which the service has been an integral part of healthcare during the global pandemic.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-27-telehealth-in-the-time-of-covid Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-5385643 Thu, 10 Sep 2020 15:00:00 -0400 2509 COVID-19, coronavirus, telehealth, Mei Kwong, Susan Philip, Milliman, Center for Connected Health Policy, reimbursement, regulation, access, virtual, Medicare, Medicaid, Commercial, insurance 1 27 full false COVID-19 and the mortgage credit risk market COVID-19 and the mortgage credit risk market COVID-19 has had far-reaching economic implications, but what does the pandemic mean for the U.S. mortgage market? On this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Mike Schmitz from the firm’s mortgage practice, and Chris Harner from Milliman’s Cyber Risk Solutions group, discuss the impact of the pandemic on mortgage defaults and the credit risk market. While unemployment spiked and remains high, Schmitz notes that mortgage risk is much more sensitive to home prices than unemployment rates, and currently all signs point to market trends that will not be as severe as during the global financial crisis.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> COVID-19 has had far-reaching economic implications, but what does the pandemic mean for the U.S. mortgage market? On this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Mike Schmitz from the firm’s mortgage practice, and Chris Harner from Milliman’s Cyber Risk Solutions group, discuss the impact of the pandemic on mortgage defaults and the credit risk market. While unemployment spiked and remains high, Schmitz notes that mortgage risk is much more sensitive to home prices than unemployment rates, and currently all signs point to market trends that will not be as severe as during the global financial crisis.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-26-covid19-and-the-mortgage-credit-risk-market Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-4606457 Fri, 17 Jul 2020 09:00:00 -0400 1411 COVID-19, mortgage, credit risk, market, default, trend, coronavirus, pandemic, Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, Ginnie Mae, FHA, loan, coronavirus, Milliman, Mike Schmitz, Chris Harner, Cyber risk, unemployment, home prices, forbearance 1 26 full false The promise and challenge of using AI for lung cancer detection The promise and challenge of using AI for lung cancer detection Artificial intelligence (AI) along with low-dose CT scans hold promise for the early detection of lung cancer, but there are challenges that come with scaling up this new technology. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Bruce Pyenson is joined by Jim Mulshine, a thoracic medical oncologist who spent 25 years at the National Cancer Institute and is now with Rush Medical Center. He outlines the promise AI holds in sifting through the reams of digital information from a CT scan to efficiently evaluate results and detect a myriad of diseases. But challenges in data quality and standardization must be addressed if the tool is to be used on a national or global level.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Artificial intelligence (AI) along with low-dose CT scans hold promise for the early detection of lung cancer, but there are challenges that come with scaling up this new technology. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Bruce Pyenson is joined by Jim Mulshine, a thoracic medical oncologist who spent 25 years at the National Cancer Institute and is now with Rush Medical Center. He outlines the promise AI holds in sifting through the reams of digital information from a CT scan to efficiently evaluate results and detect a myriad of diseases. But challenges in data quality and standardization must be addressed if the tool is to be used on a national or global level.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-25-the-promise-and-challenge-of-using-ai-for-lung-cancer-detection Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-4056371 Fri, 05 Jun 2020 12:00:00 -0400 2237 Jim Mulshine, National Cancer Institute, Rush Medical Center, lung cancer, artificial intelligence, AI, Bruce Pyenson, Milliman, CT scan, COPD, Quantitative Imaging Biomarker Alliance, screening, detection 1 25 full false What the CARES Act means for retirement plans What the CARES Act means for retirement plans The CARES Act – which stands for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act – has sweeping implications for both defined benefit (DB) and defined contribution (DC) retirement plans in the U.S. From distribution and loan relief for qualified individuals on the DC side, to deferral and election options for single-employer plans on the DB side, the CARES Act is intended to provide fast and direct economic assistance for workers and plan sponsors across the country. On this episode of Critical Point, Charles Clark, Milliman’s Employee Benefits Research Director, and Ginny Boggs, Senior Regulatory Compliance Consultant at Milliman, discuss the ins and outs of the CARES Act and what it means for retirement plans.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> The CARES Act – which stands for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act – has sweeping implications for both defined benefit (DB) and defined contribution (DC) retirement plans in the U.S. From distribution and loan relief for qualified individuals on the DC side, to deferral and election options for single-employer plans on the DB side, the CARES Act is intended to provide fast and direct economic assistance for workers and plan sponsors across the country. On this episode of Critical Point, Charles Clark, Milliman’s Employee Benefits Research Director, and Ginny Boggs, Senior Regulatory Compliance Consultant at Milliman, discuss the ins and outs of the CARES Act and what it means for retirement plans.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-24-what-the-cares-act-means-for-retirement-plans Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-3714239 Mon, 11 May 2020 14:00:00 -0400 1540 Milliman, Charles Clark, Ginny Boggs, compliance, CARES Act, Coronavirus, COVID, retirement, plan sponsor, participant, defined contribution, defined benefit, 401(k), pension, United States, loan relief, employee benefits, Critical Point, podcast, regulat 1 24 full false Managing the costs and risks of black lung disease Managing the costs and risks of black lung disease Black lung disease presents a significant, long-term liability exposure for coal companies, risk pools, and governments – a liability complicated by climate change and its effects on the industry.  After the number of reported cases declined in the late 1990s, a recent CDC report indicates that trend has reversed and that cases of black lung in miners are the highest they've been since recordkeeping began in the early 1970s. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consultants Christine Fleming and Travis Grulkowski discuss what this means for companies and insurers looking to manage this risk for their employees.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Black lung disease presents a significant, long-term liability exposure for coal companies, risk pools, and governments – a liability complicated by climate change and its effects on the industry.  After the number of reported cases declined in the late 1990s, a recent CDC report indicates that trend has reversed and that cases of black lung in miners are the highest they've been since recordkeeping began in the early 1970s. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consultants Christine Fleming and Travis Grulkowski discuss what this means for companies and insurers looking to manage this risk for their employees.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-23-managing-the-costs-and-risks-of-black-lung-disease Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-3644161 Wed, 06 May 2020 09:00:00 -0400 1562 black lung, Milliman, CWP, Coal Mine, Christine Fleming, Travis Grulkowski, claims, Byrd Amendments 1 23 full false COVID-19 and life insurance risk management COVID-19 and life insurance risk management 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-22-covid19-and-life-insurance-risk-management Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-3556546 Wed, 29 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0400 1408 COVID-19, coronavirus, ERM, life insurance, risk management, Milliman, Anthony Dardis, Ariel Weiss, Chloe Lau, stress testing, operational risk, pandemic, economic capital 1 22 full false COVID-19 and the implications on healthcare costs COVID-19 and the implications on healthcare costs 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-21-covid-19-and-the-implications-on-healthcare-costs Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-3343828 Mon, 13 Apr 2020 11:00:00 -0400 1551 COVID-19, Coronavirus, healthcare, cost, United States, Milliman, Doug Norris, Pamela Pelizzari, Matt Kramer, Stoddard Davenport, patient, consumer, out-of-pocket, insurance, health, actuary 1 21 full false Cyber in emerging markets Cyber in emerging markets Managing cyber risk in emerging markets such as South Africa comes with its own unique challenges and opportunities, as Milliman’s David Kirk and Chris Harner discuss in this episode of Critical Point. Insurers and companies are confronting varying levels of preparedness, with outstanding questions around how to best understand, measure, and quantify the cost of cyber risk and then communicate these metrics to their boards. Harner and Kirk discuss top-of-mind issues such as hardware and software challenges, the latest regulations, security concerns, and what actions insurers can consider when moving forward with managing this risk.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Managing cyber risk in emerging markets such as South Africa comes with its own unique challenges and opportunities, as Milliman’s David Kirk and Chris Harner discuss in this episode of Critical Point. Insurers and companies are confronting varying levels of preparedness, with outstanding questions around how to best understand, measure, and quantify the cost of cyber risk and then communicate these metrics to their boards. Harner and Kirk discuss top-of-mind issues such as hardware and software challenges, the latest regulations, security concerns, and what actions insurers can consider when moving forward with managing this risk.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-20-cyber-risk-in-emerging-markets Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-3175285 Mon, 30 Mar 2020 12:00:00 -0400 1479 South Africa, cyber, risk management, David Kirk, Chris Harner, Cyber Risk Solutions, Milliman, POPI 1 20 full false Lessons from healthcare systems around the world Lessons from healthcare systems around the world 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-19-lessons-from-healthcare-systems-around-the-world Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-2935849 Fri, 06 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0500 2155 global, healthcare, risk equalization, population health management, Ireland, UK, US, NHS, Critical Point, food prescriptions 1 19 full false Dental insurtech: insurance trends for care and coverage Dental insurtech: insurance trends for care and coverage 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-18-dental-insurtech-insurance-trends-for-care-and-coverage Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-1866898 Mon, 14 Oct 2019 15:00:00 -0400 1263 Dental insurance, insurtech, dentistry, Joanne Fontana, smart toothbrush 1 18 full false The future of flood insurance The future of flood insurance What if, in the future, homeowners had a flood risk score, like a credit score? In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consulting actuaries Nancy Watkins and John Rollins discuss flood risk, and what flood insurance could look like in the future. They address some of the public misconceptions about flood insurance coverage, the rise of the private market, and what this market could look like decades from now.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> What if, in the future, homeowners had a flood risk score, like a credit score? In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consulting actuaries Nancy Watkins and John Rollins discuss flood risk, and what flood insurance could look like in the future. They address some of the public misconceptions about flood insurance coverage, the rise of the private market, and what this market could look like decades from now.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-17-the-future-of-flood-insurance Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-1644415 Tue, 03 Sep 2019 12:00:00 -0400 1941 flood, insurance, hurricane, Nancy Watkins, Milliman, John Rollins, NFIP, FEMA, homeowners, futurism, flooding, mitigation 1 17 full false How pensions in America have changed (and should change again) How pensions in America have changed (and should change again) The American pension plan is in flux, but not for the first time in U.S. history. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consulting actuaries Kelly Coffing and Becky Sielman discuss why it’s a turbulent time for retirement security in America, and what the next generation of pension plans could – and should – look like given emerging technology and the changing nature of the U.S. workforce.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> The American pension plan is in flux, but not for the first time in U.S. history. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman consulting actuaries Kelly Coffing and Becky Sielman discuss why it’s a turbulent time for retirement security in America, and what the next generation of pension plans could – and should – look like given emerging technology and the changing nature of the U.S. workforce.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-16-how-pensions-in-america-have-changed-and-should-change-again Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-1422811 Wed, 17 Jul 2019 11:00:00 -0400 2108 Defined Benefit, pension, defined contribution, retirement, public pensions, corporate pensions, multiemployer pension funding index, MPFI, SIP, Kelly Coffing, Becky Sielman, 401(k), PBGC 1 16 full false Key takeaways for insurers managing the US GAAP Targeted Improvements Key takeaways for insurers managing the US GAAP Targeted Improvements Insurance companies that issue long-duration contracts (LDTI) can expect volatility, increased data and disclosure requirements, and the potential for a new market for reinsurers thanks to recent accounting changes, according to Milliman’s William Hines and Francois Dauphin. In the latest episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s life insurance actuaries discuss key takeaways from the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Long-Duration Contracts (LDTI), which will require significant risk management and has a go-live date of January 2021.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Insurance companies that issue long-duration contracts (LDTI) can expect volatility, increased data and disclosure requirements, and the potential for a new market for reinsurers thanks to recent accounting changes, according to Milliman’s William Hines and Francois Dauphin. In the latest episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s life insurance actuaries discuss key takeaways from the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Long-Duration Contracts (LDTI), which will require significant risk management and has a go-live date of January 2021.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-15-key-takeaways-for-insurers-managing-the-us-gaap-targeted-improv Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-1334368 Wed, 26 Jun 2019 15:00:00 -0400 898 LDTI, USGAAP, FASB, accounting, volatility, changes, targeted improvements, standards, long-duration contracts, Milliman, William Hines, Francois Dauphin, life insurance, Financial Accounting Standards Board 1 15 full false Climate change, immigration, and opioids: The effect of global events on mortality Climate change, immigration, and opioids: The effect of global events on mortality Global events like climate change, immigration, and the opioid epidemic have the potential to affect mortality rates, that is, the rate at which people die. Mortality rates drive many factors that affect our everyday living, like pensions, healthcare, and taxes, as Milliman principal and consulting actuary Dale Hagstrom discusses in the latest episode of our Critical Point podcast.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Global events like climate change, immigration, and the opioid epidemic have the potential to affect mortality rates, that is, the rate at which people die. Mortality rates drive many factors that affect our everyday living, like pensions, healthcare, and taxes, as Milliman principal and consulting actuary Dale Hagstrom discusses in the latest episode of our Critical Point podcast.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-14-climate-change-immigration-and-opioids-the-effect-of-global Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-1322095 Mon, 24 Jun 2019 09:00:00 -0400 1133 Milliman, mortality, life insurance, mortality improvement, climate, opioids, immigration, Dale Hagstrom, Critical Point, podcast, pension, age 1 14 full false HR communication for Millennials, Gen-Xers and more HR communication for Millennials, Gen-Xers and more What constitutes effective HR communication for Millennials, Gen-Xers, and Boomers today? In this episode of Critical Point, Heidi tenBroek, a Milliman employee communication consultant, and Jill Godschall discuss how generational differences, behavioral economics, and technology are driving change in the HR communications space.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> What constitutes effective HR communication for Millennials, Gen-Xers, and Boomers today? In this episode of Critical Point, Heidi tenBroek, a Milliman employee communication consultant, and Jill Godschall discuss how generational differences, behavioral economics, and technology are driving change in the HR communications space.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-13-hr-communication-for-millennials-genxers-and-more Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-1220243 Fri, 31 May 2019 13:00:00 -0400 1234 genX, genZ, millennials, HR, SHRM, HRTech, employees, benefits, communication, Milliman, Heidi tenBroek, employeeengagement 1 13 full false Could cyber risk be the next “Big Short”? Could cyber risk be the next “Big Short”? A cyberattack has the potential to disrupt the global economy, but using traditional underwriting and risk management approaches may leave insurers and businesses vulnerable to large financial losses. In this episode, Milliman’s Chris Harner and Chris Beck discuss how a cyberattack could create a scenario similar to 2008’s financial crisis, and the need for a new risk management paradigm that not only takes into account the interconnectedness of the risk, but provides a way for businesses to measure their exposure and prepare for it.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> A cyberattack has the potential to disrupt the global economy, but using traditional underwriting and risk management approaches may leave insurers and businesses vulnerable to large financial losses. In this episode, Milliman’s Chris Harner and Chris Beck discuss how a cyberattack could create a scenario similar to 2008’s financial crisis, and the need for a new risk management paradigm that not only takes into account the interconnectedness of the risk, but provides a way for businesses to measure their exposure and prepare for it.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-12-could-cyber-risk-be-the-next-big-short Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-1128218 Mon, 13 May 2019 09:00:00 -0400 1742 cyber, cybersecurity, Milliman, Chris Harner, Chris Beck, CyberRiskSolutions, iot, TheBigShort, cyberattack, riskmanagement, risk 1 12 full false Shea & Anders talk blockchain (Part 3): Insurance applications Shea & Anders talk blockchain (Part 3): Insurance applications Blockchain has the potential to influence - or disrupt – the insurance industry, but implementing any new technology comes with both benefits and drawbacks. In this episode of Critical Point – the third in our series on blockchain – Milliman consultants Shea Parkes and Anders Larson begin to look at real-world blockchain applications in the health insurance space and some of the compromises that have to be made to implement it.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Blockchain has the potential to influence - or disrupt – the insurance industry, but implementing any new technology comes with both benefits and drawbacks. In this episode of Critical Point – the third in our series on blockchain – Milliman consultants Shea Parkes and Anders Larson begin to look at real-world blockchain applications in the health insurance space and some of the compromises that have to be made to implement it.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-11-shea-and-anders-talk-blockchain-part-3-insurance-applicati Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-1106504 Wed, 08 May 2019 09:00:00 -0400 1349 Shea Parkes, Anders Larson, blockchain, insurance, hashing, Critical Point, bitcoin, cryptocurrency, cryptography, technology, podcast 1 11 full false What is a Critical Point anyway? What is a Critical Point anyway? 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-10-what-is-a-critical-point-anyway Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-980760 Mon, 04 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0500 1242 Mathematics, critical point, Fenchel’s duality theorem, optimization theory, topology, mathematicians, Milliman, podcast 1 10 full false Shea and Anders talk blockchain (Part 2) Shea and Anders talk blockchain (Part 2) 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-9-shea-and-anders-talk-blockchain-part-2 Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-928959 Tue, 22 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500 1422 Shea Parkes, Anders Larson, blockchain, insurance, hashing, Critical Point, bitcoin, cryptocurrency, cryptography, technology, podcast 1 9 full false Puerto Rico after the hurricane: Managing Medicaid in the face of a natural disaster Puerto Rico after the hurricane: Managing Medicaid in the face of a natural disaster 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-8-puerto-rico-after-the-hurricane-managing-medicaid-in-the-face-o Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-919166 Mon, 14 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500 1712 Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico, Medicaid, Milliman, ASES, Administración de Seguros de Salud, storm, Jose Carlo 1 8 full false Diagnosing and predicting opioid use disorder Diagnosing and predicting opioid use disorder 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-episode-7-diagnosing-and-predicting-opioid-use-disorder Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-894893 Tue, 18 Dec 2018 22:00:00 -0500 1168 Stoddard Davenport, Joseph Boschert, opioid use disorder, predictive analytics, FDA, Milliman, opioid addiction, prediction, diagnosis, risk, prescription 1 7 full false Cotton, cow mortality, and climate change: An update on the MicroInsurance Centre at Milliman Cotton, cow mortality, and climate change: An update on the MicroInsurance Centre at Milliman In this episode of Critical Point, host Lesley Pink catches up with Michael McCord of the MicroInsurance Centre at Milliman to talk about cow mortality, climate change, and some of the projects he’s helping spearhead across the globe.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> In this episode of Critical Point, host Lesley Pink catches up with Michael McCord of the MicroInsurance Centre at Milliman to talk about cow mortality, climate change, and some of the projects he’s helping spearhead across the globe.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-episode-6-cotton-cow-mortality-and-climate-change-an-update-on Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-888851 Thu, 13 Dec 2018 11:00:00 -0500 1347 Michael McCord, microinsurance, climate change 1 6 full false How tech is changing trucking insurance claims How tech is changing trucking insurance claims Trucking and trucking companies are not just big tanker trucks on the highway.  With the growth of online shopping, these companies are responsible for delivering everything from clothes to kitchen gadgets straight to your door. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Christine Fleming and Nina Plail discuss trucking insurance, specifically how insurtech is transforming claims management in the industry for both companies and consumers. Over the last five to 10 years, there have been great strides in technology--innovations like photo-estimatic platforms and telematics-- that can improve efficiencies and reduce costs for companies, while making the insurance claims process easier for claimants.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Trucking and trucking companies are not just big tanker trucks on the highway.  With the growth of online shopping, these companies are responsible for delivering everything from clothes to kitchen gadgets straight to your door. In this episode of Critical Point, Milliman’s Christine Fleming and Nina Plail discuss trucking insurance, specifically how insurtech is transforming claims management in the industry for both companies and consumers. Over the last five to 10 years, there have been great strides in technology--innovations like photo-estimatic platforms and telematics-- that can improve efficiencies and reduce costs for companies, while making the insurance claims process easier for claimants.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-episode-5-how-tech-is-changing-trucking-insurance-claims Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-884978 Mon, 10 Dec 2018 08:00:00 -0500 917 insurtech, trucking, insurance, predictive analytics, machine learning, claims, self-insured, Christine Fleming, Nina Plail 1 5 full false A primer on telehealth in the U.S. A primer on telehealth in the U.S. 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-episode-4-a-primer-on-telehealth-in-the-us Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-871292 Mon, 26 Nov 2018 13:00:00 -0500 1229 Susan Philip, telehealth, telemedicine, Critical Point, healthcare, insurance, virtual health, regulation, benefits, uses 1 4 full false Shea and Anders talk blockchain (Part 1) Shea and Anders talk blockchain (Part 1) 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 episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-episode-3-shea-and-anders-talk-blockchain-part-1 Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-845767 Tue, 30 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1248 Shea Parkes, Anders Larson, blockchain, insurance, Critical Point, bitcoin, cryptocurrency, technology, podcast 1 3 full false Alternative Payment Models 101 Alternative Payment Models 101 As healthcare costs continue to increase, the industry is looking for innovative ways to reduce spending. One recent structural change is to modify the way doctors are paid. Over the past few years, payers have begun switching from a fee-for-service model, in which doctors are paid by the volume of services provided, to alternative payment models (APMs), where the emphasis is put on the quality of services provided instead of the quantity. There are many different forms of APMs, and Milliman’s Pamela Pelizzari is sitting down with Critical Point to provide a little APM 101.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> As healthcare costs continue to increase, the industry is looking for innovative ways to reduce spending. One recent structural change is to modify the way doctors are paid. Over the past few years, payers have begun switching from a fee-for-service model, in which doctors are paid by the volume of services provided, to alternative payment models (APMs), where the emphasis is put on the quality of services provided instead of the quantity. There are many different forms of APMs, and Milliman’s Pamela Pelizzari is sitting down with Critical Point to provide a little APM 101.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-episode-2-alternative-payment-models-101 Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-752796 Tue, 17 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1362 Milliman, podcast, critical point, insurance, healthcare, technology, retirement, property & casualty, risk management, insurtech, financial services 1 2 full false Healthcare waste and how to find it Healthcare waste and how to find it Medicine is an imperfect science. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that 30% of medical care in the U.S. is unnecessary care. Eliminating inefficient and unnecessary medical services improves overall healthcare efficiency while reducing costs. In this episode, Marcos Dachary and Dr. David Mirken of Milliman’s MedInsight Waste Calculator discuss a few areas in which we’re seeing waste in our healthcare system, and what can be done to minimize it.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> Medicine is an imperfect science. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that 30% of medical care in the U.S. is unnecessary care. Eliminating inefficient and unnecessary medical services improves overall healthcare efficiency while reducing costs. In this episode, Marcos Dachary and Dr. David Mirken of Milliman’s MedInsight Waste Calculator discuss a few areas in which we’re seeing waste in our healthcare system, and what can be done to minimize it.
You can read the episode transcript on our website.

]]> https://www.milliman.com/en/insight/critical-point-podcast-episode-1-healthcare-waste Milliman, Inc. Buzzsprout-720090 Mon, 11 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -0400 2132 Milliman, MedInsight, Waste Calculator, insurance, healthcare, provider, waste, Choosing Wisely, high-value care, Marcos Dachary, David Mirken 1 1 full false