Axa provides underwriting guidance to account holders throughout the UK
Axa has launched a roving underwriter service in a bid to help advisers explain the underwriting process to their clients.
The provider, which launched the service after demand from IFAs for more education on underwriting issues, will send staff around the country to visit key Axa accounts.
Axa believes the service is unique and innovative and said it would offer advice on guideline changes originating from the Financial Services Authority, technical medical queries, business protection and financial underwriting.
Mike Taylor, chief underwriter for protection at Axa, said: "This is another example of how Axa is trying to innovate in the market of underwriting. We're trying to fit it in with being easier to do business with the underwriting process and it's getting across more complex areas of the process by focusing on matters such as teleunderwriting."
Taylor said he hoped it would lead to a better understanding of underwriting by listening to customers and intermediaries and would further improve Axa's processes.
Peter Chadborn, principal of CBK Colchester, said the development was "first class" but wondered what Axa meant by "key accounts": "A couple of years ago, Royal Liver did a small underwriting presentation and it was one of the most valuable events we have ever been to. Their head underwriter gave a presentation and for IFAs to speak with underwriters to understand what makes them tick and vice-versa was hugely valuable so I've no doubt this will be as successful."