“Let’s Talk About AARP Services…..”
A conversation on the past, present and future with Raul Yzaguirre,
Board chair, and Larry Renfro, president and CEO.
Larry:
I’d like to set the stage for this conversation by saying that 2007
was another successful year for our organization. As readers will
see in this report, we exceeded nearly all of our goals -- member
value, making a positive impact in the marketplace, and managing relationships
that provide revenue for our sole shareholder, AARP.
Raul:
Yes, and speaking for the ASI Board of Directors, we’re especially
proud to say that 2007 was our sixth year in a row of growth – that
covers every year since AARP Services was created. Through our efforts,
we’ve been able to supply more resources in support of AARP’s social
mission. AARP Services is truly helping to improve the experience
of aging for millions.
Larry:
And we want to build on that.
Raul:
Absolutely. So, let’s talk about why we’ve decided to revamp some
of our business models, build out our staffing, refocus our health
strategies….well, let’s talk about why we’re still evolving.
Larry:
Certainly at this time in history, aging itself seems to be changing.
AARP has been responding to this changing demographic in membership
since the first boomers turned 50 in 1996. People live longer and
have new needs and attitudes and we respond by providing access to
products and services that meet those new needs and expectations.
Raul:
In 2007 we actually did a lot of planning for 2008 and beyond. But
also some product enhancements were added and we made available new
offers like AARP Fitness.
Larry:
Like I said, we’re meeting expectations.
Raul:
Yes – the plans we make available through the AARP Health insurance
program are really in response to our members’ needs for better healthcare
services. AARP sees a need and AARP Services steps up to help meet
it.
Larry:
Healthcare’s a big order. AARP has been seeking a stronger focus
on prevention and greater access to care for those over and under
65 for decades. And now we’ll meet the changing needs of our members
in healthcare delivery through the AARP-branded health insurance products
from our providers, United, Aetna and Genworth.
Raul:
With United offering health insurance for those over 65 and Aetna
covering the 50-64 year olds, we’ll be addressing everyone of AARP
membership age. And Genworth’s long-term care insurance completes
the picture. Together, these three providers worked with us to come
up with innovative ideas in healthcare insurance.
Larry:
Such as our providers having incentives to focus on keeping people
healthy and preventing illnesses, as much as trying to bring more
effective treatments to people when they do fall ill. We’ve embraced
the use of plain language in healthcare just as we did in our financial
documents at AARP Financial Inc. (AFI) because health literacy is
just as important as financial literacy in improving the lives of
our members.
Raul:
Well, let’s face it – you and I are both “plain language” guys. AARP
Services and AARP Financial understand that it’s important for members
to know their options and the way all the AARP-branded products and
services work. It’s great to see that extended to our service providers.
Larry:
In a way you can even say that our health plans are building on our
approach with AFI. There was a need for more financial security, and
AARP decided to see how we could help people with investments and
managing financial assets. Creating AFI was a new way for the Association
to more directly offer members a means to greater financial security
and support AARP’s social impact goals.
Raul:
One of the exciting things about AARP Services is how we reach out
to people in a wide-range of ways. Along with health and financial
services, we make what we call Lifestyle offers available.
Larry:
Lifestyle covers the AARP discount offers, travel services, legal
services, the motoring plan…
Raul:
Many of the things that are day-to-day needs. And services that speak
to the human need for entertainment and fun. It’ll be exciting to
see what we do in that category next.
Larry:
It’s one of our focuses for 2008 – so stay tuned.
Raul:
I know we all will. AARP Services is on a roll. As Chairman of the
Board, I can confirm that we have great things ahead. 2007 was remarkable
in so many ways and is setting the foundation for great progress in
2008.
|
