For immediate release
May 24, 2009

South Portland, ME, May 24, 2009 …According to JHA’s recently released 2009 Individual DI Market Survey, disability insurance carriers felt the impact of the recession last year, with flat to modest growth in total inforce premium and a decline in new sales premium. A summary of the survey results has been posted on JHA's website www.jhaweb.com and provides timely information for the industry during Disability Insurance Awareness Month (DIAM).

Results from the survey reinforce the need for accessing and educating potential customers. For example, Individual DI new sales premium fell 11.1% to $339 million in 2009. And new sales policy growth has been negative four out of the last five years.

“Industry campaigns like DIAM are a good reminder to seek new and better ways to reach American workers who need disability coverage,” said Drew King, president, JHA. “But real, sustainable growth needs to be the focus for insurance carriers year-round, in all markets: group, individual, and worksite. We heard this theme during our Dynamics Seminar in March, and attendees were definitely eager to hear our speakers share their ideas and strategies for accessing the uninsured.”

Participating companies receive the full report.

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JHA is the Disability and Group Life reinsurance, risk management and research division of General Re Life Corporation. Headquartered in South Portland, Maine, JHA offers its clients reinsurance solutions and consultative support in the areas of underwriting, risk management, pricing, valuation, claim management, marketing, distribution and product development.Through its research practice, publications and industry events, JHA is the leading source for information and insight about the Disability and Group Life markets.

General Re Life Corporation conducts business as Gen Re LifeHealth, and is a Berkshire Hathaway Company.