Revolutionising Life Insurance: Digital PMARs and Next-Gen Underwriting

Historically plagued by lengthy processing times, the sector faces a persistent underinsurance gap, with over a million Australians lacking adequate life protection.

The introduction of a digital Personal Medical Attendant Report (PMAR) by Acenda, formerly MLC Life, marks a significant stride towards addressing this challenge.

The insurance industry has long grappled with the cumbersome, manual process linked to securing life coverage. According to the Financial Services Council, this results in many Australians underinsured or entirely uninsured. A primary bottleneck in the process has been the PMAR, integral in determining a client’s eligibility but slowed by reliance on paper-based systems that depend on clinicians' schedules and priorities.

Acenda's collaboration with EQ Pathology aims to slash these delays using Australia's first digital PMAR. Unlike its traditional counterparts, this digital format is custom-tailored to underwriter requirements, enabling precise information collection essential for decision-making. The creation of a fully integrated, digital underwriting engine allows applications requiring medical evidence to be processed swiftly and efficiently, cutting down wait times drastically.

The integration of UnderwriteMe's cutting-edge insurtech solutions further enhances Acenda's capabilities. Automating simpler cases ensures that underwriting teams focus only on complex scenarios, optimising their expertise and improving customer service. In previous deployments, this technology has reduced policy approval times significantly while boosting policy uptake.

For consumers, faster processing translates to more timely access to insurance, addressing the prevalent underinsurance gap. This technological innovation not only streamlines the process but also ensures data security via secure API transfers, eliminating the risks associated with transferring sensitive information through less secure means.

Acenda's pioneering approach illustrates a broader trend in the insurance industry demanding innovation in service delivery. By implementing a fully digital PMAR and decisioning engine, the company sets a new industry standard, underpinning its ambition for a more efficient, transparent, and customer-centric insurance experience.

Looking forward, this advancement is likely to drive a wider industry shift towards digital solutions, not only improving turnaround times but also laying the groundwork for smarter and fairer decision processes. As these innovations continue to evolve, the life insurance sector in Australia is on a clear path to meeting the immediate needs of its consumers efficiently and effectively, ultimately bridging the underinsurance gap and enhancing trust in the industry.

Published:Monday, 11th Aug 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Broker Ordered to Compensate Client for Uninsured Fire Losses

15 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

A recent ruling mandates an insurance broker to pay nearly $300,000 in compensation to a client after an insurer, QBE, declined a fire claim and cancelled the policy due to nondisclosures. The fire, which occurred in October 2022, severely damaged the commercial premises. QBE asserted that they would have denied coverage had they known about asbestos on the property, among other unreported issues. - read more

Insurance Claim Denied Due to Evidence of Multiple Collisions

14 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

An insurance dispute arose when a driver was refused coverage for car damage after evidence showed involvement in multiple collisions, contrary to her claim. Initially, the woman filed a claim with Hollard Insurance, stating her car had collided once with another vehicle. However, the situation took a turn when forensic data from in-car technology revealed two separate impacts occurring 11 minutes apart. - read more

ASIC Considers Action as Professional Indemnity Insurance Transparency Falls Short

12 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has voiced apprehension about the transparency of professional indemnity (PI) insurance amongst holders of the Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSLs). This concern arises from a recent market overview conducted to analyze PI insurance for AFSLs offering personal advice to retail clients. - read more

Traveller Triumphs in Insurance Dispute Over Unexpected Medical Detour

11 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

A savvy traveller has successfully challenged an insurance decision after having to make an impromptu stay in London due to a medical emergency. This came after the man needed urgent medical attention following a cat bite he sustained in Albania, which sent him to the UK capital for essential treatment. - read more

Revolutionising Life Insurance: Digital PMARs and Next-Gen Underwriting

11 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

In the age of instant digital services, where everything from basic necessities to luxury items can be delivered in a blink, the life insurance sector in Australia is poised for a transformative change. Historically plagued by lengthy processing times, the sector faces a persistent underinsurance gap, with over a million Australians lacking adequate life protection. The introduction of a digital Personal Medical Attendant Report (PMAR) by Acenda, formerly MLC Life, marks a significant stride towards addressing this challenge. - read more

Landlords Insurance Articles

Understanding Landlord Insurance: Does It Cover Tenant Damage?

Landlord insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed to protect property owners who rent out their properties. It covers a range of risks that landlords face, including damage to the property, loss of rental income, and liability for injuries that may occur on the premises. - read more

The Key Differences Between Landlord and Homeowners Insurance

As a property investor, understanding the different types of insurance available is crucial. Whether you're a seasoned landlord or just starting, having the right coverage can safeguard your investment and provide peace of mind. With various options out there, knowing which insurance policies to choose can make all the difference in protecting your assets. - read more

What Does Your Landlord Insurance Truly Cover? A Comprehensive Guide

Landlord insurance is a specialized type of insurance designed to protect property owners from potential risks associated with renting out their property. Unlike standard home insurance, which typically covers owner-occupied residences, landlord insurance offers tailored coverage that addresses the unique challenges faced by landlords. - read more

What are the common exclusions in landlord insurance policies?

Landlord insurance is a specialized type of coverage designed to protect property owners who rent out their residential or commercial properties. This insurance typically provides financial support in the event of damage to the property, loss of rental income, and liability claims from tenants or visitors. Essentially, it helps ensure that landlords are safeguarded against potential risks and unexpected financial burdens. - read more

Does Your Landlord Insurance Cover Short-Term Rentals Like Airbnb?

In recent years, short-term rentals have exploded in popularity across Australia. Platforms like Airbnb and Stayz have transformed how people approach accommodation, offering unique experiences that hotels often can't match. Whether it's a beachfront apartment in Sydney or a cozy cottage in the countryside, these rentals appeal to a wide range of travellers seeking flexibility and local charm. - read more

Knowledgebase

Insurance Deductible:
the amount that an insured is required to contribute toward an insurance claim as stipulated in an insurance policy. Otherwise known as the "policy excess".