Ethics & Unconscious Bias

The “Ethics & Unconscious Bias” course teaches insurance professionals about ethical issues concerning unconscious bias, diversity, equity, and inclusion, including review of the Unfair Claims Practices Act and good faith handling tips. The module is presented by Dee Studler, MACC, CPA, CFF, of SDC CPAs LLC; Ayanna Mishoe- Brooker, a claims professional with over 20 years of industry experience; and Jennie Philip, Esq., currently a Senior Coverage Director in Coverage & Complex Claims at Chubb.

The module begins with a review of the statistics on the impact of diversity initiatives and a panel discussion on representation. The next section features a state-by-state review of the Unfair Claims Practices Acts, and the following section explores documentation and other aspects of good faith claims handling. Vignettes from claims professionals are discussed on the topic of unconscious bias in claims handling, and the panel explores the intersections of bias in mediation and litigation. Finally, the course explores how vendor management is affected by diversity initiatives.

After completing the course, the attendee will be able to explain the impact and limitations of diversity initiatives; find a professional approach to situations where they or others are experiencing bias; identify if there is a duty to defend race-based conduct; enumerate the key contents of an Unfair Claims Practices Act in general and for certain states; understand the issues that can lead to bad faith litigation; list the potential penalties under the law for bad faith; document their file effectively and be prepared for certain criticisms of claims logs; understand the case law on discoverability of claims diaries; act as effective mentors, sponsors, advocates, and allies; explain the case law behind Batson challenges and juries with explicit biases; and discuss the laws and rules on vendor diversity programs. The course is designed for insurance professionals working in the area of property or casualty adjusting.