Mental health has emerged as a significant challenge for the insurance sector. This was highlighted by Julián Nuño, Director General of Strategy, Transformation, and Technology at DKV Seguros, during a discussion focused on people's well-being and innovation in healthcare. Nuño firmly stated that insurance companies "should assume greater responsibility" in light of the increase in mental health issues, particularly among young people.
The pandemic served as a turning point, breaking down taboos and reducing the fear of seeking help. According to the data presented, approximately two out of every ten individuals have experienced depression, anxiety, or related absences in the past year, marking an 86% rise over the last six years. In response, Nuño advocated for a combination of digital and in-person resources, stressing the importance of "normalizing mental health care and ceasing to stigmatize it".
This perspective aligns with DKV's strategy, termed "easy health," which aims for frictionless, understandable, accessible, and personalized care. Nuño emphasized the necessity of extending care beyond the treatment phase to incorporate prevention across all life stages. Artificial intelligence is seen as a key tool to reduce bureaucracy, anticipate needs, and advance towards personalized medicine.
The executive also underscored the importance of technology being accessible to all demographics, refuting the notion that advanced age equates to a lack of digital skills. He noted that DKV has more clients over 50 using digital tools than under 35, while still championing inclusive design and human support.
Population aging presents a considerable economic challenge, with increased chronic conditions and dependency likely to strain healthcare systems. Furthermore, there's a shift in insurance usage, moving from "just in case" policies to active utilization. Nuño concluded that addressing these challenges requires a focus on prevention, early intervention, telemedicine, and hybrid models to enhance quality of life and manage costs.
