The 80/20 rule is a common saying in insurance. It refers to the theory that about 20 percent of insureds generate 80 percent of claims. When dealing with too many “worst case scenarios,” however, claims professionals can develop a myopic view of insureds. This is where formal and hands-on learning come into play. Donna J. Popow, Esq., CPCU, AIC, explains how education helps cultivate a better understanding of claims handling and the business overall. She also says that striking a balance between hectic workloads and professional development is easier than one might think.

Claims professionals often report being overworked. How attainable is education and specialized training in this pressure cooker environment?
I started in claims in 1977 and I don't think a year went by that we weren't complaining of being overworked. Having said that, I do think the change in the way claims are handled has put an increased burden on file handlers in terms of file documentation and additional reporting and data entry work. So I can empathize with overworked claims personnel and acknowledge that companies are doing more with less. It is always debatable as to whether claims organizations have ample resources.

There is no doubt that they're busy. Claims professionals have to make a decision about continuing education, whether that means license requirements, requirements of the job, or their own professional development.