Being responsible for strategic procurement, you already know how to structure an RFP. But when sourcing a decision support system and medical advisory services for personal injury claims, there are some criteria that deserve extra attention. These factors are key to choosing the right partner and securing long-term success.

1. Put security first

Personal injury claims and medical advisory services involve sensitive personal data. That makes information security non-negotiable. An ISO 27001 or similar certification should be a minimum requirement in your RFP. It proves that the vendor have structured security processes in place and is audited regularly by an independent organisation.

An extra benefit is that a certification also simplifies your own due diligence. Instead of performing a detailed review of the vendor’s security routines, you can rely on the work being done as part of the vendor having a certification. You should also request evidence of IT security practices, such as regular penetration tests.

2. Ensure regulatory compliance

GDPR compliance goes without saying, but insurers are also subject to regulations like DORA. A strong RFP should require vendors to demonstrate how they comply with current regulations and explain how they monitor and adapt to new requirements as they emerge.

3. Look for continuity and stability

A system is only as reliable as the company behind it. You’re not just buying software – you’re choosing a long-term partner. Ask vendors to demonstrate their track record: how many years they’ve been in business, and whether they can show sustainable financial performance. This reduces the risk of investing in a solution from a provider that may not be around tomorrow.

4. Assess the medical network and expertise

Technology alone isn’t enough. The strength of the medical advisory network is just as important. In your RFP, make sure to ask about:

  • Breadth: Multiple doctors in each specialty to avoid bottlenecks and ensure availability.
  • Languages: The ability to handle cases in different languages, especially important in international claims.
  • Quality assurance: Clear processes for ensuring the accuracy of every assessment – for example, through case selection, peer review, or regular audits.
  • Efficiency: Performance indicators such as average case turnaround times and handling times.

These insights will give you a clear picture of how the network works in practice – not just on paper.

5. Future-proof your investment

Your RFP shouldn’t only cover today’s needs – it should prepare you for tomorrow’s. Regulations are changing, claims are becoming more complex, and expectations on efficiency are rising.

At the same time, AI technology is evolving at incredible speed. It has huge potential to streamline claims handling by structuring medical information and freeing up time for more complex decisions. Very soon, it will be a natural part of every modern insurer’s operations.

But AI development also requires significant ongoing investment. That’s why it’s extra important to choose a vendor backed by a strong, financially stable, and long-term owner. It gives you the reassurance that the product will remain top-class three, five, or even ten years from now.

That’s why your RFP should also ask:

  • What integration opportunities does the system offer?
  • Is there support for AI features that can further develop and streamline the process over time?

By focusing on future-proofing, you’re not just securing a system that meets your needs now – you’re choosing a partner who can grow with you in the years to come.

 Conclusion

An RFP for decision support systems and medical advisory services is about more than functionality and price. Security, compliance, continuity, the quality of the medical network, and future-readiness are just as important. By factoring these into your procurement process, you set the foundation for faster claims handling, higher quality decisions, and stronger customer trust.