Perspectives 16: what shifting patterns mean for IPMI

What were the key takeaways?

Together, our experts took a closer look at the story behind the data in our latest report. They discussed how people are living longer but in increasingly poorer health, as well as the challenges and opportunities this represents for insurers and customers alike.

This year’s report reveals a “New Claims Equation” in global health. While high-cost, complex conditions like cancer remain central, there is a growing impact from lifestyle-linked and chronic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. The data shows a 110% increase in global outpatient drug claims since 2021, reflecting a shift towards more continuous, connected care driven by prevention, earlier diagnosis, and ongoing management.

Dr Robin Clark, Medical Director for Bupa Global and UK Insurance, noted: “For the first time, we’re seeing clearer signs that global lifestyle patterns and demographic change are beginning to show up more distinctly in our claims data. The overall shape of global health is broadening, with a more diverse mix of conditions now influencing claims patterns.”

The panel discussion explored how these trends are being felt on the ground, with insights from Dr. Kathy Chow (Head of Clinical Operations, Asia), Simon Godfrey (Head of Health Solutions, Asia-Pacific, Aon), and Dr Kevin Fong (Emergency Physician and Broadcaster). Key themes included the shift from acute, episodic care to proactive, continuous health management; the growing importance of prevention and early intervention; and the role of technology and data in delivering more personalised, efficient care.

As the event concluded, Carl Blake emphasised the importance of transparency and partnership: “By sharing what we see in our data, we can help our intermediary partners, employers and providers plan ahead with greater confidence and respond to health trends as they emerge. The story of global health is changing fast, but with that change comes progress and opportunity.”

We hope you found the conversation valuable. Our ambition for these events is to give you helpful information to strengthen your conversations with clients about future trends, challenges and opportunities for the IPMI industry.

Please share the video and our report with your colleagues and clients. For more information about our events, or for further information on any of the topics discussed, please speak to your Bupa representative.