Dubai – New research published by Mercer Marsh Benefits (MMB) highlights that health insurers operating in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) are forecasting a 10.1% increase in the year-on-year cost of medical claims in 2022, up from 9.5% in 2021.

The report, MMB Health Trends, surveys 210 insurers globally and explores the major trends influencing the future of employer-provided medical benefits. According to the research, 62% of insurers operating in MEA reported that medical claims activity in the region remains higher than pre-pandemic levels and is continuing to trend upwards, significantly higher than the global figure of 41%.

Further, 31% of respondents cited COVID-19 as one of the top three causes of claims costs by dollar amount and frequency in MEA in 2021, trending closely to global data (34%). As a result, one in five (21%) insurers globally are actively considering introducing long COVID exclusions, while 8% have already changed their policies to include pandemic-related exclusions and  more than a third (34%) are invoking restrictions around pre-existing conditions relating to long COVID.

Commenting on the research, Julio Garcia-Villalon, Mercer Marsh Benefits Leader, MEA, said: “While the full course of the COVID-19 pandemic remains unpredictable, it is clear that its impact on employer health programs will persist for years to come.

“The pandemic has also affected how people interact with healthcare systems, and how they behave with regards to the management of their health. It is increasingly important for employers to encourage employees to embrace preventive care, through initiatives such as annual health screening and wellbeing programs.”

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About Mercer Marsh Benefits

Mercer Marsh Benefits (MMB) was born out of the unification of one of the world’s most respected HR consultancies, the global leader in people risk advisory and the number one disruptive benefits technology firm to form one unique business. Together they have shaped some of the world’s most loved employee benefit experiences for small companies, growing enterprises and global firms. MMB is 7,000 strong, on the ground in 73 countries, and servicing clients in more than 150 countries. It brings local expertise to more places and works side-by-side with clients, and Mercer and Marsh colleagues around the world. Mercer and Marsh are two businesses of Marsh McLennan (NYSE: MMC), together with Guy Carpenter and Oliver Wyman. The Company’s 81,000 colleagues advise clients in more than 130 countries. With annual revenue of almost $20 billion, through its market-leading companies Marsh McLennan helps clients navigate an increasingly dynamic and complex environment.

Contact:
Emma Millar
emma.millar@marsh.com