government

Owain Thomas talks to Claire Ginnelly about a difficult year for private healthcare, the impact of the up-coming election, claims clarity and the potential sale of one of the market's biggest players

Care for the elderly and disabled at home are currently enjoying a high political profile.

Policymakers should focus on making existing regulatory powers work before jumping to extend their remit, or risk damaging UK competitiveness, says the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

The politics of long-term care funding has become very contentious in the run up to the election and the debate has moved from a relatively rational debate on options for the future to emotive political point scoring.

As we approach the election it is worth looking at the Conservatives' ideas on welfare reform.

Axa has enhanced its critical illness (CI) cover following a product review and consultation with advisers.

Terminally ill cancer patients and people undergoing chemotherapy are being threatened with benefit cuts if they do not attend back-to-work interviews, Macmillan Cancer Support and Citizens Advice have warned.

Individuals should contribute towards future long term care costs but insurers will face a difficult task providing schemes to suit, according to a survey conducted by law firm Pinsent Masons LLP.

Swiss Re has said the insurance and reinsurance sectors will continue their "U-shaped" recoveries in 2010 alongside the major global economies.

In November, the UK Forum for Genetics and Insurance (UKFGI) published a report which it commissioned from Professor Sandy Raeburn and myself which suggested possible options for improving the genetics moratorium.