The insurance industry provides life assurance and other protection products for the majority of its customers as a matter of routine. But, says Paul Sandilands, for a section of society, "ticking the box" may not be an option.

As the National Health Service comes under increasing financial strain, and the economic costs of sickness become more apparent, Michael Payne, outlines the part private medical insurance (PMI) could play through a restructure of current taxation rules...

For thousands of employees with Retail Price Index (RPI) linked salaries, the economic downturn will cost them dearly. Sue Weir looks at how the effect of what for many will mean a pay freeze could be softened

The protection industry is expecting a reduction in the number of IFAs post RDR of from 20-50%, depending on the survey chosen. Will this impact on sales of protection and will this prompt the resurgence of in-house sales forces - the man from the Pru?...

A 15-year decline in care home demand has ended - yet many are still forced to pay for themselves.

In September the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) published company specific complaints data for the first time while the ABI has published company aggregated data.

The ABI reviews the statement of best practice on critical illness every three years. Given the high frictional costs associated with the change that the customer ultimately pays for, is it still correct that we should follow this strict path?

Winter sports are growing in popularity and have diversified into different forms. Charlotte Bayley assesses the underwriting ramifications

The implementation of the RDR, in consultation until 30 October, will impact on protection, both through the providers and directly on IFAs. Stephen Gay, director of distribution development at Aviva Life, Robert Kerr, head of distribution development...

James, a building engineer, his wife and four-year-old daughter are to relocate to Dubai for six months followed by Hong Kong for six months. All are healthy. What approach should they take to health insurance? Would one PMI policy cover the year?