UPDATE- Canadian Council of Insurance Regulators (CCIR) Travel Health Insurance Position Paper

In the October 13, 2016 edition of ACTAVision, ACTA informed you of ACTA’s submission to the Canadian Council of Insurance Regulators (CCIR) Travel Health Insurance (THI) Products Issues Paper. Given that the paper cited Travel Agents/Travel Agencies/other exempt sellers represent 36% of THI products offered to consumers, ACTA recognized the importance in responding to the questions posed within the issues paper as well as provide any relevant feedback that could assist the regulators to improve the fair treatment of customers as well to ensure that all customers are properly insured when travelling. ACTA's submission is available for our members . Since October 2016, ACTA met with the CCIR on a couple of occasions to discuss our submission and clarify any points made within.   

On May 30, 2017, the CCIR released their final Position Paper which can be found here. The final recommendations outlined in the Position Paper include:

  • Development of common standardized definitions and terminology
  • Improvements to the application, screening and claims process
  • Simplifying and improving disclosure documents
  • Ensuring adequate controls and oversight mechanisms are in place throughout the product lifecycle
  • Improved training and information for sales forces

The CCIR stated they are “encouraged by the industry’s commitment to improve the consumer experience and will continue efforts to monitor the implementation of the recommendations to ensure they are adopted in a timely manner. CCIR members remain determined to see the changes make a difference for all Canadians.”

From ACTA’s perspective, the recommendations do not immediately impact the retail travel industry community as they are directed to the Insurers to implement. However, as the Insurers begin to make these changes, travel agencies will hear from their respective Insurers to advise of any changes in their policies or processes. Training and education within the distribution channel of an Insurer is ultimately where retail travel agencies may see some changes. ACTA will continue to work closely with CCIR and our Travel Health Insurance Partners to keep members updated on the status of these industry recommendations.