Norwich Union Healthcare (NUH) has relaunched its website as part of a new internet strategy designe...
Norwich Union Healthcare (NUH) has relaunched its website as part of a new internet strategy designed to give IFAs the option of conducting more business over the web and give customers more comprehensive advice.
The site, launched on 3 January, marks the first phase of the insurer's internet plans which include the development of a site set to offer intermediaries access to real time quotes online by March this year and customers the option to buy direct by the end of the year.
At present, the site allows new customers to access online quotes and opens the door to a variety of information sources for existing policyholders including an online health magazine, advice on how to make a claim, frequently asked questions, a GP helpline and a change of details form.
According to Nicole Hockley, communications manager at NUH, the new site was developed after it was found that its previous site was failing to provide added value for customers. She said: "Our previous healthcare site was very flat and did not provide any explanation of cover, so it turned into a one hit wonder with customers. This year we have a number of plans aiming to provide customers with all the information they need to know."
Although NUH will be giving customers the choice to buy direct, Hockley said the second phase of the plans will be specifically designed to give intermediaries a more efficient service and help them create a more effective web presence.
She said: "IFAs will not only benefit from the improved customer website as a selling point for policies, but we are also hoping to help intermediaries improve their own internet presence so we can work together more efficiently."
"The direct market is strong but limited and we would never consider it as a replacement for our other distribution channels. There will always be a strong need for IFAs, especially in the health insurance market."
