While predictive modeling won't replace knowledgeable insurance adjusters and underwriters, it is the wave of the future for the workers' compensation industry, a trio of experts here stressed.

Strong voter push-back over controversial health care reform proposals, cost concerns and the political vacuum left by the death of Sen. Edward Kennedy are likely to prompt Congress to ultimately pass more moderate, "reform-lite" legislation.

The sad truth about the current debate over health care is that it has little to do with real reform, while there is not much informed debate going on anymore.

An insurance regulators' poll of small businesses finds nearly two thirds of owners lack the know-how to pick a health plan fitting their company's finances and workers' needs.