Insights from 2026
RISKWORLD: Emerging Risks, AI Adoption, and the Future of Claims

Introduction

The Risk Management Society’s (RIMS) RISKWORLD® conference is one of the largest gatherings of risk management, insurance, and claims professionals. The annual event brings together employers, carriers, brokers, third-party administrators, and service providers to explore the current trends and opportunities shaping the future of risk and claims management.

During RISKWORLD 2026 in Philadelphia, CorVel surveyed conference attendees to gain valuable insight into how organizations are preparing for an increasingly complex claims environment. The results reveal an industry navigating a period of rapid transformation.

New technologies are creating opportunities for greater efficiency and improved outcomes, while also introducing emerging risks and implementation challenges. At the same time, long-standing fundamentals such as speed, communication, and access to care remain critical drivers of success.

AI Fraud Emerges as Top Severity Concern

When asked what will most likely increase claim severity over the next three to five years, respondents identified AI-enabled fraud and data authenticity issues as the leading concern. Thirty-two percent selected AI-related fraud risks, followed by social inflation, including larger verdicts and prolonged litigation, at twenty-five percent.

These findings highlight a growing reality for claims organizations. As AI becomes more accessible and sophisticated, concerns around fraudulent documentation, manipulated information, and data authenticity are becoming increasingly important. At the same time, continued social inflation places pressure on claim costs and litigation exposure.

When implemented responsibly, AI can be a powerful tool in identifying fraud, waste, and abuse by helping claims teams recognize patterns and anomalies that may otherwise go undetected. However, organizations must balance innovation with appropriate controls. Effective AI fraud prevention strategies include layered verification processes, continuous monitoring, strong governance practices, and ongoing education for claims teams.

CorVel addresses these challenges through proactive oversight and advanced fraud detection capabilities. By combining intelligent automation with experienced professionals, CorVel helps clients navigate emerging AI risks while maintaining confidence in the integrity of their claims programs.

Read the full report below.