The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has launched an Expert Working Group on HIV. The working group is designed to help the insurance industry to development best practices and policy when dealing with the HIV matters and improving information for consumers on the subject. Professor Donald Jeffries, a leading authority on AIDS and HIV will chair the group. His aim is to bring together clinicians, HIV interest groups and insurers to ensure that the insurance industry treats the subject of HIV risk, and particular groups associated with that risk, with sensitivity and fairness.
Richard Walsh, the ABI’s Head of Health Insurance, said “The establishment of the ABI’s Expert Working Group confirms the insurance industry’s commitment to dealing sensitively and fairly with the issue of HIV. Professor Jeffries has a great depth of knowledge and expertise in this field, and until recently chaired the Government’s Expert Advisory Group on AIDS. I’m delighted that he’s agreed to chair this important body.”
Professor Donald Jeffries, Chairman of the ABI’s Expert Working Group on HIV, added “Insurance has an important part to play in assessing the risks associated with HIV and AIDS, and the industry has a duty to research and explain these risks to consumers. Insurance companies can also work with healthcare professionals and others to provide information about how to minimise these risks. The ABI’s Expert Working Group will address these points and ensure that the issue of HIV is always dealt with sensitively and fairly by insurance companies.”
Chris Morgan, member of the Expert Working Group and Editor of pinkfinance.com, said “The new Working Group will play an important role in ensuring the new HIV and Insurance guidelines are respected by the insurance industry. I’m very pleased that the gay community have been invited to participate, as this will ensure that gay men are treated fairly and respectfully when applying for insurance products in the future.”
The Expert Working Group’s Terms of Reference for on HIV were published in October 2004 in the ABI’s Statement of Best Practice on HIV and Insurance. They are stated as being to inform further policy development on:
· The evidence base for HIV risk
· Changing cultural attitudes and encouraging responsible behaviour
· Rational and respectful decision making
· Fair ratings