Capita Financial Software's research arm, Synaptic, has launched a new area of Synaptic Product Research, enabling advisers to research and recommend locum insurance products, which are designed to cover the costs of absence for medical professionals.
The locum insurance research service will be part of Synaptic's existing health module. The service will also be available to Synaptic Protection Research users who have access to the life and health data modules.
Locum insurance is particularly topical at the moment due to the swine flu pandemic, with many GPs looking towards advisers to ensure that they are covered in the event of absence due to the outbreak.
Commenting on the new service, Synaptic research manager, Ellen Ashcroft, said: "This new area will help to allow advisers to diversify into new areas, a real advantage in the current economic climate. Over the past year, we have received a number of enquiries from advisers relating to this type of cover and hope that new and existing users will be able to use the facility to create new business opportunities''.
LocumPlan is one of four specialist providers who are supplying searchable information from launch day. LocumPlan administration manager, Lynda Cox, said: "With rising locum costs over recent years, advisers should check that their medical practitioner clients are adequately covered. Synaptic's research development will introduce this type of cover to a wider audience and enable advisers to evidence selection and compliance."
Although traditionally intended to cover locum costs for accident or sickness, products available in the market now include benefits for jury service, maternity and paternity cover. Some even include cover for personal possessions and medical expenses. The locum cover insurance research area will be available for existing Synaptic Product Research users from 6 August.
Advisers can call 02476 839700 to activate a free trial for Synaptic Product Research.
