MDI aids many policyholders

Although the summer storm season has ended, the Missouri Department of Insurance's consumer services staff provides year-round assistance for policyholders.

In 2000, MDI handled 4,244 complaints that brought $7.4 million in financial relief to policyholders through in-creased settlements, reversed claim de-nials or replacement policies. Most complaints and recoveries involve claims. Another 60,000 Missourians asked for information or publications, and 407 lodged complaints.

The highest rate of recovery for consumers comes in HMO coverage.

Those in need of MDI assistance can visit the agency's Web site at www.insurance.state.mo.us to view and print electronic brochures and rate comparison guides, check statistical reports, verify an agent's status, make a complaint on-line or take advantage of dozens of other services.