The team leading the government's sickness absence review has said it is keen to learn what the insurance industry can offer to improve the current management of absence.
They are also examining examples from abroad where insurance plays a key role in the system.
Speaking at the Protection Review Awards, Dame Carol Black, co-leader of the government's review, told the industry that: "I'm well aware you have the incentives and expertise to support employers and help rehabilitate employees who are covered by sickness or disability insurance.
"We are eager to learn from you and what insurance could offer to this review and have met with several insurance companies individually along with some written submissions.
"And of course we are looking abroad where private insurance has played a big part in tackling disability and sickness absence," she added.
Dame Black also explained that the review had so far highlighted current responsibilities of sickness absence and included areas where changes in insurance arrangements could be beneficial.
