Cigna becomes the first healthcare company to simplify health benefits information
Global health company Cigna has now launched its voice control technology “Answers by Cigna” for Amazon Alexa.
The technology will aim to answer over 150 frequently asked questions, and work to simplify its answers surrounding health benefits and healthcare plans into easily digestible pieces of information.
“Voice control offers an exciting and innovative way for Cigna to educate and engage people about health care in a way that is convenient for them,” explained Rowena Track, Vice President of Digital Marketing at Cigna.
“The applications for voice control are expanding every day and we see great potential as we continue to simplify and personalise our customers’ health care journeys. Our work with Amazon Alexa provides us with experience and expertise as we evolve our voice platform and introduce new personalised services throughout the year.”
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A survey undertaken in the US on health literacy in 2017 found that 20% of respondents did not understand the word “premium” and 66% did not understand the word “formulary.” This has seen US citizens become disadvantaged in understanding the benefits which they could receive throughout their health benefits and subsequent healthcare plans.
The use of voice assistants is gaining pace across the country, where many are using the technology to not only gain awareness of certain subjects or general questions, such as the weather, but as a source of company for those who live alone.
The launch of “Answers by Cigna,” follows on from the growing interest technology companies are having within the lucrative healthcare market, where new, personalised digital tools could enhance our everyday lives and give greater control across a user’s daily healthcare management.
It also comes straight after the launch of the Mayo Clinic’s decision to launch the Mayo Clinic First-Aid skill, accessible through Amazon’s Alexa technology.