COVID-19 Update
Update – March 26th, 2020: We’ve added a COVID-19 page to our site listing a webinar recording and other resources for agents. It can be viewed here >
We hope in these uncertain times that you and your family are well. We value your business and want you to know that we are committed to supporting your needs as you serve your clients. Allegis has been closely following the COVID-19 virus developments in the U.S. and locally. The health and safety of our employees is extremely important; therefore, we have taken measures internally to decrease the risks to our team and their families.
Office is Open: Due to the size of our team, and various precautions taken, we want to reassure you that our operations are functioning at expected levels and we are open for business to serve you. Some staff are working from home or on a rotation between office and home.
Business Continuity Program: Allegis Advisor Group has an active business continuity program should it require activation. Currently, some team members work remotely. All our team members have the resources, support, and technology necessary to work from home or other remote locations so our high service level to you and your clients will be uninterrupted.
Electronic Platforms: Given the need for social distancing and self-isolation, electronic platforms are more critical now and in the future. Allegis offers several such platforms so you can write and transact business without face-to-face meetings. Please contact your Allegis marketing representative for a demo or more information.
Underwriting Environment: Our Chief Underwriter, Byron Rasmussen, has received several questions relating to underwriting COVID-19.
Insurance companies are not testing for COVID-19. We are not aware of any imminent plans to start or require testing.
Death claims as a result of COVID-19 infection are covered. This illness is not treated different than other illnesses from a coverage perspective because it is a global pandemic.
Current Underwriting Treatment:
Current infection with the virus will receive a “Postpone” underwriting decision until client is fully recovered. While companies are not testing for the virus, like any other illness, a current infection would need to be disclosed on an exam, non-medical, or interview. Non-disclosure of a known infection, like non-disclosure of any material health information, could result in the denial of a claim during the contestability period.
Recent and planned foreign travel is being postponed by many insurance companies until 15-30 days after travel is completed
Potential Future Underwriting Treatment:
While nothing has been implemented, populations at higher risk of mortality or morbidity from COVID-19 infection may be subject to changes in underwriting practices in the future. Carriers may decide to be become more stringent in underwriting insureds at older ages or for insureds with chronic medical conditions, especially chronic respiratory conditions, to minimize risk.
As your Allegis team, we take comfort in the safety and protection products we represent which help us all be there for our clients when they need us most. We will continue to monitor the developments around COVID-19 and will keep you updated on this page as the situation changes.
Be Safe…and Wash Your Hands!
Your Allegis Team