Work is well underway on the latest update to RCL’s annual Dental PPO Network Study, the only tool in the industry providing carriers with competitive benchmarks. The study measures in-network discounts, network utilization rates, and overall network savings from the combination of the two (effective discounts). When the study is complete, I will also publish an update on national discounts and trends in networks over the past few years, looking at such questions as whether networks are still growing while also increasing discounts, and whether plan designs continue to increase incentives for patients to use a network dentist.
The new version will be released in a few months. It will evaluate network data from 2009 and include some new participating companies. Meanwhile, a report on last year’s findings is available here. For more information, contact Ruth Ann or keep checking back here.
I recently read the perfect book for a quiet actuary managing a consulting practice, and wrote a review published here by the SOA. The book is by Nancy Ancowitz, a business communication coach I have worked with over the past few years, and like all of her work it is insightful and useful. An introvert herself, Nancy has a great perspective on how we think and how we work with those chatty extroverts. Far from everyone I work with is an introvert -even the actuaries!. But since we’re half of the population some must be, and might find this useful. Take a look – and let me know what you think.
Ruark Consulting has released our major benchmark Variable Annuity Benefit Utilization Study. Please view the press release below for additional information.
Variable Annuity Benefit Utilization Study (Press Release)
The media has shown interest in the Variable Annuity Benefit Utilization Study. Noteworthy articles include:
National Underwriter
Ruark Consulting, LLC. (RCL) is an actuarial consulting firm established in 2004, specializing in healthcare, annuities, data and technology. The Health Practice is headed by Ruth Ann Woodley. The Annuity Practice is managed by Tim Ruark, and the Data/Technology Practice is headed by Brad Murray.
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