Artificial intelligence is becoming more common in life insurance underwriting, but the industry faces new challenges as it tries to balance technology with skilled workers. This is according to Pacific Life’s 2026 Underwriting Outlook Survey, which gathered input from over 100 insurance and underwriting leaders.
The survey found that nearly half of these professionals are already using AI in some way. About 20% said AI is part of their daily work, and 24% use it regularly to help make decisions. However, 38% are still testing AI and have not fully adopted it. Most executives see AI as a way to speed up processes and use data better. Around 40% say it helps make faster underwriting decisions, and 35% note improvements in using medical and other data. Only a small number believe AI is changing how risks are selected.
Alongside this, many worry about the availability of skilled underwriters in the future. About 70% of respondents are concerned that not enough talent will be around. They point to an aging workforce and the loss of important knowledge as a big issue. Others mention the challenge of blending human judgment with automation and the difficulty in attracting younger workers.
The survey also shows how important health data will be going forward. More than half believe electronic health records will have the biggest impact on underwriting in the next three to five years. This is much higher than other data sources like prescription records or wearable devices.
Younger customers are also pushing for faster and more digital experiences. 57% of those surveyed said that meeting these customer expectations will shape the industry over the next decade.
Overall, the findings reveal an industry in change. Life insurers are adopting new technology and facing workforce gaps while trying to keep the right balance between machines and people for making decisions.