Swiss Re Updates Underwriting Guidelines to Expand HIV Insurance Coverage

Swiss Re has revised its Life Guide underwriting manual to enhance insurance coverage options for individuals living with HIV, reflecting advancements in medical treatment that have transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition. Since the update in 2022, 370 companies across 76 countries have adopted the guidelines to better assess and underwrite HIV-related risks. The updated manual reflects the impact of antiretroviral therapy, which has improved life expectancy and quality of life for those with well-managed HIV, aligning insurance risk assessments with current medical realities. Swiss Re's Life Guide Scout, an AI-driven tool introduced in 2024, supports underwriters by streamlining access to HIV-related underwriting guidelines and reducing errors in decision-making. By standardizing HIV risk evaluation and incorporating global analytics, Swiss Re aims to facilitate broader and fairer access to life insurance for the HIV-positive population. The move addresses historical barriers in underwriting practices, promoting evidence-based, efficient, and equitable insurance solutions.