NationalEUO's Blog/Do EUOs Take Too Long? How to Make Examinations Under Oath Efficient

The Top Three EUO Myths: Part 3 – "It Takes Too Long"

When we surveyed claims professionals across the industry, we uncovered three primary myths that prevent people from using Examinations Under Oath (EUOs) effectively.

We’ve already addressed two of them: “EUOs are too costly” and “EUOs are too dangerous.”
Now, let’s tackle the third myth:

“EUOs take too long.”

This concern is rooted in a misconception about the EUO process. Many professionals believe that EUOs are a lengthy, inefficient procedure that delays claims unnecessarily. But as we’ll explore, the truth is that a properly managed EUO process is designed to be highly efficient.

The Myth of Inefficiency

The belief that EUOs take too long often comes from real-world experiences where the process was mishandled. Common complaints include:

  • Scheduling Delays: EUOs that take months to schedule and reschedule.
  • No-Shows: Missed appointments that push timelines further.
  • Extended Timelines: The inability to decide a claim because the EUO process drags on for weeks or months.

These frustrations are valid—but they don’t reflect the true nature of the EUO process. Instead, they highlight issues with the way the process is being managed.

The Truth: EUOs Are Designed for Efficiency

The EUO was created to provide a streamlined, efficient way for insurance companies to gather the information and documentation they need to evaluate claims. When handled correctly, the entire process should take no more than two to three weeks from the decision to conduct an EUO to its completion.

If your EUOs are taking longer than that, the problem isn’t the process itself—it’s the way it’s being executed.

Common Causes of Delay

Here are some of the most common reasons why EUOs take longer than they should:

  • Improper Handling
    Treating EUOs like depositions or litigation files is a common mistake. When EUOs are scheduled 45 days out—just as you might schedule a deposition in a litigated matter—it creates unnecessary delays.1. Improper HandlingLegal and claims professionals have applied their own perspectives, leading to inconsistencies in the EUO’s purpose.
  • Lack of Training
    Without proper training, those conducting or overseeing the EUO may not understand how to expedite the process effectively.
  • Inefficient Outside Counsel
    If outside counsel isn’t specialized in EUOs or lacks a clear-cut process, delays can quickly accumulate. A properly trained counsel will prioritize efficiency, ensuring the EUO is scheduled and conducted within a short timeframe.

How to Make EUOs More Efficient

The good news is that an efficient EUO process is entirely achievable. Here’s how:

  • Focus on Fundamentals
    The EUO process is straightforward. The demand, for example, is a critical element that, when properly applied, not only expedites the process but also provides unmatched protection for the company.
  • Use a Systematic Approach
    The EUO process should be consistent regardless of the state or jurisdiction. At its core, the process is universal and does not require reinventing the wheel for different locations.
  • Hold Counsel Accountable
    If your EUOs are taking more than 30 days from assignment to completion, it’s time to evaluate the process. Outside counsel should operate with a clear understanding of how to streamline EUOs while maintaining quality and compliance.
  • Invest in Training
    Proper training ensures that everyone involved—whether conducting the EUO or overseeing it—knows how to handle the process efficiently and effectively.

The Bigger Picture: Dispelling All Three Myths

At the root of all three myths—cost, danger, and delay—is a lack of proper knowledge. Without a clear understanding of how EUOs work and why they’re valuable, it’s easy to fall into patterns that create inefficiencies and frustrations.

The truth is that the EUO process is designed to be simple, efficient, and effective. When handled correctly, it ensures that the company can quickly gather the information it needs to decide claims, combat fraud, and fulfill its obligations.

Conclusion

The myth that EUOs “take too long” is just that—a myth. With the right knowledge, training, and processes, EUOs can be completed quickly and efficiently, without delaying claims.

If you’re ready to master the fundamentals and unlock the full potential of EUOs, join us for an in-depth training session. You’ll learn how to streamline the EUO process, ensure compliance, and deliver results that benefit your company and your customers.

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  • Process: Should take only 2-3 weeks if properly executed.

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Danny Vazquez

Danny Vazquez is the National EUO, LLC CEO.

Danny is a central leader on Claims, Investigations and EUOs in the insurance and legal industries.

​As CEO, Danny took the knowledge and insights gained throughout his 25 plus years legal career to establish National EUO as the Nation's leading company on EUO services and EUO training.

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