Indianapolis, IN June 28, 2013 – New web design follows expansion of its insurance product portfolio
iTravelInsured®, Inc. (iTI®), a leader in the trip cancellation and travel insurance markets, today announced the launch of its redesigned website, www.itravelinsured.com. It is part of a continued effort by iTI’s parent company, International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®), to develop a more cohesive Web presence for its family of companies, while improving the overall user experience for visitors to its sites. The redesigned site offers a clean layout and intuitive navigation, a host of client resources, company information, and a wealth of travel insurance information.
“We are extremely pleased with the design and new features of the website,” said director of marketing at iTravelInsured, Bill Dismore. “We are continuously striving to improve our customers’ experiences and to provide them with the highest level of service. As a result, we’ve incorporated many of their suggestions to make the travel insurance transaction easy to navigate and fast to complete. We’ve also included many additional features that our customers can utilize to prepare for and enhance their travel experience.”
A few of the new site features include:
– Enhanced navigation that provides visitors quick access to information and travel-related resources
– Submenus of information that include frequently asked questions, a variety of insurance plan options and downloadable forms/brochures
– A newsroom that allows customers to stay up-to-date with company news
– A member area that allows travel agents to retrieve free quotes and securely request coverage for their clients, view training Webinars, update client information and more.
The launch of the redesigned site follows a major product overhaul that enhanced iTI’s identity as a premier provider of insurance programs for travelers. Late last year, the company re-organized its travel insurance programs into four broad categories: Leisure Travel, Student Travel, Lodging and Business Travel. Within each of these categories, travelers can request the travel protection options that suit their specific needs. Some of the benefits offered under these programs include:
– Trip cancellation protection in the event of a stolen passport or visa which prevents the insured from going on the trip;
– Trip cancellation protection for work reasons for key employees;
– Missed connection coverage because of common carrier delay;
– Trip cancellation due to a family member’s participation in an athletic championship event; and
– Coverage for theft of mobile business equipment.
The Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) and FORTUNE announced that International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®) was selected for the 2013 Inner City 100, a list of the fastest-growing inner city companies in the U.S. The Inner City 100 program recognizes successful inner city companies and their CEOs as role models for entrepreneurship, innovative business practices and job creation in America’s urban communities. IMG placed 90th. It marks the sixth time that IMG made the list. In 2011, IMG was inducted into the Inner City Hall of Fame.
Tag: International Medical Group
IMG Among ICIC and FORTUNE's Inner City 100 Winners
Indianapolis, IN June 05, 2013 – The Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) and FORTUNE announced that International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®) was selected for the 2013 Inner City 100, a list of the fastest-growing inner city companies in the U.S. The Inner City 100 program recognizes successful inner city companies and their CEOs as role models for entrepreneurship, innovative business practices and job creation in America’s urban communities. IMG placed 90th. It marks the sixth time that IMG made the list. In 2011, IMG was inducted into the Inner City Hall of Fame.
The rankings for each company were announced at the Inner City 100 Awards in Boston, Massachusetts. Preceding the Awards celebration, winners attended a two-day conference featuring business management case studies presented by Harvard Business School professors and peer-to-peer learning sessions led by CEOs of fast-growing firms. Keynote speakers included Harvard Business School professor Michael E. Porter; Tim Westergren, founder and chief strategy officer of Pandora Media; Tom Szaky, CEO of TerraCycle; and Hamdi Ulukaya, founder, president and CEO of Chobani.
Joseph Brougher, founder of IMG, accepted the award on IMG’s behalf. “It’s a remarkable achievement to be included among these companies once again,” said Mr. Brougher. “We are proud to be part of this prestigious group that has maintained a steadfast commitment to the urban areas of our country.”
The Inner City 100 list provides unmatched original data on the fastest-growing inner city businesses in the U.S. In the last 15 years, 750 unique companies have earned positions on the Inner City 100, collectively generating more than $2.1 billion in annual revenues. For the 2013 list, winners represent a wide span of geography, operating in 48 cities and 27 states. They grew at a compound annual growth rate of 36 percent and an average standard growth rate of 411 percent between 2007 and 2011. Collectively, the top 100 inner city businesses employ 10,391 employees and have created more than 5,863 new jobs between 2007 and 2011. Not only are the winners powerful job creators in their communities, but they also help grow their employees – 56% provide onsite training programs.
“It’s a tremendous honor to make the list for the sixth time, and it’s truly a credit to everyone on our team,” said R. Brian Barwick, president and CEO of IMG. “Being included speaks to the long-term success of our organization, and it illustrates our continued commitment to our clients and our community.”
IMG Among ICIC and FORTUNE’s Inner City 100 Winners
Indianapolis, IN June 05, 2013 – The Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) and FORTUNE announced that International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®) was selected for the 2013 Inner City 100, a list of the fastest-growing inner city companies in the U.S. The Inner City 100 program recognizes successful inner city companies and their CEOs as role models for entrepreneurship, innovative business practices and job creation in America’s urban communities. IMG placed 90th. It marks the sixth time that IMG made the list. In 2011, IMG was inducted into the Inner City Hall of Fame.
The rankings for each company were announced at the Inner City 100 Awards in Boston, Massachusetts. Preceding the Awards celebration, winners attended a two-day conference featuring business management case studies presented by Harvard Business School professors and peer-to-peer learning sessions led by CEOs of fast-growing firms. Keynote speakers included Harvard Business School professor Michael E. Porter; Tim Westergren, founder and chief strategy officer of Pandora Media; Tom Szaky, CEO of TerraCycle; and Hamdi Ulukaya, founder, president and CEO of Chobani.
Joseph Brougher, founder of IMG, accepted the award on IMG’s behalf. “It’s a remarkable achievement to be included among these companies once again,” said Mr. Brougher. “We are proud to be part of this prestigious group that has maintained a steadfast commitment to the urban areas of our country.”
The Inner City 100 list provides unmatched original data on the fastest-growing inner city businesses in the U.S. In the last 15 years, 750 unique companies have earned positions on the Inner City 100, collectively generating more than $2.1 billion in annual revenues. For the 2013 list, winners represent a wide span of geography, operating in 48 cities and 27 states. They grew at a compound annual growth rate of 36 percent and an average standard growth rate of 411 percent between 2007 and 2011. Collectively, the top 100 inner city businesses employ 10,391 employees and have created more than 5,863 new jobs between 2007 and 2011. Not only are the winners powerful job creators in their communities, but they also help grow their employees – 56% provide onsite training programs.
“It’s a tremendous honor to make the list for the sixth time, and it’s truly a credit to everyone on our team,” said R. Brian Barwick, president and CEO of IMG. “Being included speaks to the long-term success of our organization, and it illustrates our continued commitment to our clients and our community.”
IMG Appoints Executive Vice President
Indianapolis, IN May 30, 2013 – International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®), an Indianapolis-based insurance group, today announced that Todd Hancock joined the company as executive vice president, joining the experienced management team led by R. Brian Barwick, president and CEO. The appointment of Mr. Hancock, a seasoned insurance executive with more than 20 years of industry experience, signals a renewed focus on growth and innovation for the reputable global company. Mr. Hancock will be responsible for oversight of the international insurance operations at IMG. He will also work closely with senior management on business development and strategic opportunities for IMG’s family of companies.
“We are pleased to welcome Todd to our dynamic team,” said Mr. Barwick. “His proven track record within the insurance industry, his tactical thinking, and his results-oriented approach will play an essential role in extending IMG’s international reputation for excellence, innovation, quality and service. Todd brings the vision and skills we were looking for in an executive vice president.”
Before his appointment, Mr. Hancock was executive vice president and chief operating officer of Worldwide Expatriate Advisors, an international benefits managing general underwriter. He was responsible for operational integrity including client service systems, policy and broker administration, and claims; sales, marketing and strategic objective setting; oversight of underwriting functions; and oversight of product design and implementation. His specialized experience also includes well-documented work for AmWINS Group, International Health Insurance danmark a/s, UnitedHealth International and Sg2.
“I look forward to working with IMG’s dedicated employees and helping to lead the team through its next phase of development,” said Mr. Hancock. “IMG will continue to focus on its customers, strengthen its core service offerings and expand its global presence.”
IMG and Sister Cities Provide Insurance Solutions to International Travelers
Indianapolis, IN May 21, 2013 – Sister Cities International to Offer IMG International Insurance Products to its Member
International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®), a worldwide leader in designing, distributing and administering global health care benefits, today announced its international medical insurance products will be available to members of Sister Cities International effective July 1, 2013. Members will be able to view and purchase a variety of IMG products at www.sister-cities.org. The new relationship is designed to enhance the services offered to Sister Cities International members.
“We are very pleased that Sister Cities International will be offering our products,” said R. Brian Barwick, president and CEO of IMG. “The relationship brings together two best-in-class organizations committed to the well-being and safety of its customers and members. With our premier products and experienced staff, we provide service to our customers wherever they are in the world. Sister Cities International members will now be able to access the international resources and care they need to help their communities continue completing world-class exchanges.”
IMG’s international medical insurance products provide short and long-term coverage for individuals, groups and families traveling, living and working abroad. Each product provides international benefits not found on standard domestic health plans. In addition to competitive premiums, IMG customers have access to multiple international service and assistance centers, multilingual customer service professionals, and claim administrators who process claims from all over the world handling most languages and currencies. They also have 24-hour access to coordinators of emergency medical services and treatment. Additionally, when seeking treatment outside the U.S., customers can access more than 17,000 physicians and facilities through IMG’s proprietary International Provider AccessSM (IPA) database. By offering these specialty products and services, Sister Cities International feels it can bring a complete international insurance solution to its members.
“Sister Cities International is excited to be working alongside International Medical Group,” said Mary Kane, president and CEO of Sister Cities International. “Our members are sure to benefit from IMG’s proven international insurance products and stellar services.”
The relationship was made possible with the help of Donald S. Hardy of Quantum Benefits. Hardy has over 50 years of insurance experience and has been contracted to sell IMG products since 2005. He added, “I am happy to bring these two great organizations together, and I am pleased that the members of Sister Cities International will have access to the quality international insurance they demand.”
ACM Receives URAC Accreditation for Health Utilization Management
Indianapolis, IN Apr 30, 2013 – IMG’s medical management company receives full accreditation
(INDIANAPOLIS) – Akeso Care Management®, Inc. (ACM®), announced today that it has been awarded Health Utilization Management Accreditation by URAC, a Washington, DC-based health care accrediting organization that establishes quality standards for the health care industry. This accreditation assures the adequacy and quality of ACM’s health utilization management program through evaluation against broadly recognized standards and measures. ACM provides medical management services to domestic and international insurance carriers, self-insured employers and third party administrators. These services include utilization review, large case management, emergency medical evacuations, discharge planning and medical bill review, all designed to provide appropriate, cost-effective patient care.
“We are extremely proud and honored to achieve full accreditation from URAC,” said Carolyn Tinsley, executive vice president and chief operating officer of ACM. “ACM continues to enhance its services and solutions for our customers. We are committed to on-going quality, and see URAC accreditation as a vital step in continuing to be there with our customers, providing superior service and a collaborative approach to their care.”
“We applaud Akeso Care Management on achieving URAC Utilization Management Accreditation,” said Alan P. Spielman, URAC president and CEO. “In today’s health care market, URAC accreditation provides a mark of distinction for organizations to demonstrate their commitment to quality health care.”
URAC’s Health Utilization Management Standards establish consistency in UM processes. The standards ensure that appropriately trained clinical personnel conduct and oversee the utilization review process, that a reasonable and timely appeals process is in place, and that medical decisions are based on valid clinical criteria.
IMG and ACM Provide International Travel Guidance In Light of New Viruses Discovered
Indianapolis, IN Oct 25, 2012 – With the recent emergence of several new human viruses, including a SARS-like coronavirus originating in Saudi Arabia, International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®), a worldwide leader in designing, distributing and administering global health care benefits, is addressing concerns from international travelers and customers.
Since the 2003 SARS outbreak, in which the virus claimed more than 900 lives worldwide, awareness and concern throughout the international community regarding viral infections and communicable diseases has been on the rise. Moreover, with recent reports of several new viruses affecting human populations, many international travelers are worried. However according to Dr. Jon Hart, Chief Medical Officer at Akeso Care Management®, Inc. (ACM®), IMG’s in-house URAC accredited, medical management service division, the international medical community has vastly improved its detection of and response to diseases of this nature, since the SARS outbreak. In 2005 the World Health Organization (WHO) drafted new International Health Regulations that require participating countries to immediately report disease outbreaks to the WHO, and to develop detailed plans-of-action and response capacities.
“Even with improved international coordination and communication, there are still some commonsense tips that can help travelers prepare for a trip and possibly prevent illness while traveling,” said Dr. Hart. “Practicing good hygiene is one of the most important measures. Washing your hands, avoiding close contact with others who are sick, and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing; are all considered good standards of care and basic steps travelers can take to avoid illness.”
IMG and ACM offered the following additional tips:
Review current travel warnings and recommended vaccinations for different countries. www.healthmap.org/en/ is an informational site that lists current warnings and communicable disease information.
Keep your medicines with you at all times. Do not check them in your luggage and do not leave them out in the open in your hotel room.
If there is any question about the quality of the local water – don’t drink it.
Review your domestic health insurance policy to determine if you are covered for accidents and illnesses outside of your home country. If you are not, consider purchasing a travel medical insurance policy with the appropriate benefits based on your travel plans.
Know your policy’s emergency travel assistance number.
IMG recommends that any of its members seeking treatment outside of the U.S., utilize its International Provider AccessSM (IPA) database, a network that includes more than 17,000 physicians and facilities worldwide. The network can be accessed via IMG’s customer portal, MyIMGSM, and users can search by physician, facility, specialty or location.
Dr. Hart added that IMG and ACM will continue to monitor the coronavirus situation and the impact it is having on the international community, but in the meantime according to the World Health Organization (WHO), international border closures are not recommended and there are no disease related travel restrictions at this time.
Enhancements to Patriot T.R.I.P. Series
Indianapolis, IN Sep 11, 2012 – International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®), a worldwide leader in designing, distributing and administering global health care benefits, announced it enhanced its travel insurance product line, adding to its diverse product portfolio. The Patriot T.R.I.P.® (Travel Itinerary Protection) series of products targets travelers in various markets and provides a wealth of benefits to help protect their vacation investments from costly travel delay, baggage and medical expenses. Insured travelers may also recover non-refundable, unused payments and deposits when a trip is cancelled or interrupted for a variety of reasons.
According to Jeff Nasser, senior vice president of international marketing at IMG, travelers should prepare for the unexpected. “Anything can happen when you travel. Unfortunately, unforeseen events can quickly ruin your travel plans, and that time and money you spent may be lost. These benefits and services are designed to make your trip as stress-free as possible.”
The four programs within the Patriot T.R.I.P. series are underwritten by Sirius America Insurance Company (Sirius America). As a wholly owned subsidiary of Sirius International Insurance Corporation (publ) (Stockholm, Sweden), Sirius America is rated A (Excellent) by A.M. Best. Some of the benefits include:
* Coverage for trip durations to 31 days (options available for longer durations)
* Trip cancellation protection in the event of a stolen passport or visa;
* Trip cancellation protection for work reasons;
* Missed connection coverage;
* Trip cancellation due to a family member’s participation in an athletic championship event; and
* Coverage for theft of mobile business equipment.
Separate from these benefits, the programs provide non-insurance emergency travel assistance, such as helping insureds replace lost travel documents or lost prescriptions, embassy or consulate referral, emergency cash transfers, and legal and medical referrals when necessary.
Mr. Nasser added, “Our goal is to support our customers’ unique needs. By offering a multitude of travel insurance programs that are backed by world-class services, we can help safeguard their travel investments from unforeseen circumstances and provide true Global Peace of Mind®.”
IMG and Asia Medical Assistance Establish PPO Network Agreement
Indianapolis, IN Aug 30, 2012 – IMG Announces New PPO Agreement
International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®), a worldwide leader in designing, distributing and administering global health care benefits, announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Asia Medical Assistance (AMA), a division of the Privat Healthcare Group, to provide preferred provider organization (PPO) access to IMG’s insured customers located in the Philippines. The PPO network offers discounted rates and the convenience of direct billing capabilities.
“We are pleased to offer this additional network to our insured customers,” said Jeff Nasser, senior vice president of international marketing at IMG. “This agreement expands and strengthens our network so that customers in this area have access to a wealth of established health care providers. Our new relationship with AMA is another demonstration of our commitment to offer customers the high quality coverage and services they demand.”
With 15 private hospitals and several hundred providers in the Philippines, the AMA PPO enables IMG to provide its customers with more choice, which can help lower claim costs, provide convenient access, reduce out-of-pocket expense, and increase customer satisfaction when they are seeking medical treatment.
“We are honored to be working with IMG,” added Abhijeet Singh Sachdev, CEO of AMA. “This partnership allows us to deliver new options to IMG insureds. We look forward to providing them with high-caliber, cost-effective health care solutions in the Philippines.”
About International Medical Group, Inc. (IMG)
As a leader in the international health insurance market, IMG has provided Global Peace of Mind® to over a million people worldwide in more than 170 countries. For over 20 years, IMG has provided top-tier global medical insurance benefits and has developed a reputation of excellence in the international community. With its around-the-clock medical management services, multilingual claims administrators and highly trained customer service professionals, IMG is confident in its ability to provide the products international travelers need, backed by the services they want. IMG is based in Indianapolis, Indiana USA. Its companies include IMG Europe Ltd, Akeso Care Management®, iTravelInsured®, and IMG-Stop LossSM. IMG’s family of companies is committed to meeting the unique needs of its international clientele.
For more information, call 1.866.368.3724, e-mail info@imglobal.com or visit www.imglobal.com. For additional media information, visit www.imglobal.com/press-kit.
About Asia Medical Assistance (AMA)
As part of the Privat Health Care Group, with over 30 years of experience in the medical field, AMA was built on a strong medical foundation. Privat pioneered travel medical facilitation with the advent of Privat Telemedicine and Privat Travel Clinics in the Asia region.
AMA strives to provide quality ethical health, safety and well-being assistance to those in need. AMA has a formidable clientele of international insurance companies, corporate and government organizations, with partnerships in global networks of medical and travel assistance. For more information, visit www.asiamedassist.org or email info@asiamedassist.org.
IMG URAC Accredited Subsidiary Launches New Web Site
Indianapolis, IN Apr 4, 2012 – New Web site launch
Akeso Care Management® (ACM®), a URAC accredited international health care management company, announced today the launch of its redesigned Web site, www.akesocare.com. It is part of a continued effort by ACM’s parent company, International Medical Group®, Inc. (IMG®), to develop a more cohesive Web presence for its family of companies, while improving the overall user experience for visitors to its sites. The site enables easier navigation and serves as a virtual access point for the breadth of services ACM offers.
“Considerable thought has gone into our Web presence and we are more than pleased with the launch of the new design,” said Carolyn Tinsley, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of ACM. “While Web pages alone will never deliver the level of personal service for which our staff has become known, this site provides our clients and prospective clients a solid platform where they can quickly and easily find important information on all of our services, including our Medical Concierge Service, Disease Management Program and International Case Management. Utilizing current technology to enhance our Web site allows us to continue providing the highest level of service.”
Unique to the industry is ACM’s Medical Concierge Service. This provides ACM clients with critical information on provider ratings, treatment outcome and cost of care prior to receiving medical treatment for non-emergency medical conditions – all in the area where they are planning treatment. Additionally, they receive verification of physician admitting privileges, verification of PPO participation, educational material concerning the procedure, assistance with scheduling appointments and more. According to Tinsley, clients ultimately choose their provider, however, with the information supplied by the Medical Concierge Service, they can make informed decisions about where to have procedures performed, which will effectively reduce their health care costs.
Additionally, Tinsley stated ACM clients are better positioned to maximize the quality of care they receive through its vast array of other services, which can all be found at the new site, including:
Utilization Management – ACM evaluates the medical necessity for hospitalizations and out-patient services, so that clients receive health care in the most appropriate and cost-effective manner.
Comprehensive Case Management – ACM’s medical personnel assist patients and providers in developing a collaborative approach to highly complex cases requiring detailed management.
Transplant Network Access – ACM provides full access to four of the largest and most cost-effective transplant networks in the U.S., and its Transplant Coordination Team provides complete assistance patients on transplant cases.
Out-of-Network Claim Negotiation – ACM uses multiple negotiation strategies to minimize the financial impact of claims that fall outside of a client’s primary network.
To find out more about ACM and its services, visit www.akesocare.com.