“In 2014, does it still make sense for P&I Clubs to underwrite routine health and accident claims?” asks Robert Johnston, head of the crew medical and personal accident insurance specialist Crewsure. Commenting on the heightened atmosphere of the P&I renewal season, Mr Johnston added, “Clubs have inherited the task of dealing with seafarers who need medical treatment. Yet they are not healthcare insurers - they are ill equipped to provide 24/7 no fault medical plans or to negotiate standard fees with hospitals, and so for many years they have been forced to battle rising health bills.