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Medicare Blog | Medicare News | Medicare Information

NABIP Texas - Annual Medicare Summit Recap

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Mon, Aug 28, 2023 @ 01:55 PM

Tags: Professional Networking, Medicare Solutions, NABIP

Inflation Reduction Act: Update on CMS Implementation

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Mon, Aug 28, 2023 @ 10:40 AM

CMS The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 was signed into law on August 16, 2022. The new law provides meaningful financial relief for millions of people with Medicare by improving access to affordable treatments and strengthening the Medicare Program both now and in the long run. The law makes improvements to Medicare by expanding benefits, lowering drug costs, keeping prescription drug premiums stable, and improving the strength of the Medicare program. The law also extends enhanced financial help to purchase HealthCare.gov and state-based Marketplace plans and expands access to Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended vaccines for adults with Medicaid coverage.

 Specifically, the Inflation Reduction Act:

  • Ensures that people with Medicare pay no more than $35 for a month’s supply for each covered insulin product under Medicare prescription drug coverage, Traditional Medicare, or Medicare Advantage.
  • Lowers Medicare Part D prescription drug costs and redesigns the prescription drug program (e.g., people enrolled in Medicare prescription drug coverage who have very high drug costs will no longer have to pay cost-sharing for their prescription drugs in the catastrophic phase of the program starting in 2024, and caps annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 for 2025).
  • Makes adult vaccines, recommended by the ACIP, available at no cost for people with Medicare prescription drug coverage starting January 1, 2023, and later in 2023 for people with Medicaid coverage.
  • Allows Medicare to negotiate directly with participating drug companies to improve access to innovative treatments for people with Medicare and lower costs for the Medicare program.
  • Requires drug companies that raise their drug prices faster than the rate of inflation to pay Medicare a rebate and reduces coinsurance for these drugs for people with Medicare under certain circumstances.
  • Provides more assistance in affording Medicare prescription drug coverage premiums and out-of-pocket drug costs by expanding the low-income subsidy program (LIS or “Extra Help”) under Medicare Part D to 150% of the federal poverty level starting in 2024.
  • Extends increased financial help to purchase affordable, comprehensive health insurance plans through HealthCare.gov and the state-based Marketplaces.

This law means millions of Americans across all 50 states, U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia will save money from meaningful benefits. The Inflation Reduction Act is accomplishing the following just one year after being enacted:

  • Saving Affordable Care Act Marketplace consumers an average of more than $800 per year from continued expansion of financial assistance, based on national estimates.
  • Driving the nation’s uninsured rate to historic lows.
  • Lowering insulin costs for 4 million seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes by capping a month’s supply of each covered insulin at $35.
  • Providing ACIP-recommended adult vaccines at no cost to millions of people with Medicare.
  • Lowering out-of-pocket costs for some people with Medicare for certain Part B drugs and biologicals with prices that have increased faster than the rate of inflation.
  • Projecting savings for nearly 19 million seniors of an average of $400 per year when the $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs goes into effect in 2025.

 

 

Tags: Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, Medicare Part D, CMS

Mutual of Omaha: Enhanced Med Supp Broker Bonus Program

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Mon, Aug 28, 2023 @ 09:52 AM

Mutual Bonus Program Enhanced Bonus Opportunity

Not appointed to sell with Mutual of Omaha?

Request details today and add this great company to your portfolio.

 

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Tags: Medicare Supplement, mutual of omaha, Bonus Program

Navigating Success: Best Practices When Selling Medicare Insurance to Seniors

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Mon, Aug 14, 2023 @ 01:21 PM

Best Practices - Medicare Sales

Selling Medicare insurance to seniors is a significant responsibility that requires a delicate balance of understanding, empathy, and expertise. As seniors approach retirement and healthcare becomes a central concern, your role in guiding them through their Medicare options is invaluable.

To excel in this field, here are essential best practices to consider:

1. In-Depth Knowledge: Medicare is a complex program with multiple parts and options. To gain seniors' trust, you must have a thorough understanding of the various plans, coverage options, enrollment periods, and eligibility criteria. Be prepared to explain these intricacies clearly and simply.

2. Educational Approach: Seniors may be unfamiliar with the nuances of Medicare. Offer educational resources, seminars, or workshops to provide insights into how Medicare works, the differences between Part A, B, C, and D, and the potential out-of-pocket costs. Empower them to make informed decisions.

3. Personalized Consultations: Every senior's healthcare needs are unique. Schedule one-on-one consultations to assess their medical history, current health conditions, and prescription drug requirements. This information will help tailor your insurance recommendations to their specific needs.

4. Build Trust Through Transparency: Honesty and transparency are crucial. Clearly outline the benefits, limitations, and potential costs associated with each Medicare plan. Highlight any potential gaps in coverage and explain how supplementary insurance, such as Medigap or Medicare Advantage, can fill those gaps.

5. Address Affordability Concerns: Many seniors are on fixed incomes, so cost considerations are paramount. Explain the cost structures of different plans, including premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums. Discuss ways to manage costs while ensuring comprehensive coverage.

6. Communicate Effectively: Seniors may have varying comfort levels with technology. Offer multiple communication channels, including in-person meetings, phone calls, and printed materials. Adapt your approach to their preferences to ensure clear and effective communication.

7. Emphasize Preventive Care: Seniors often prioritize maintaining good health. Highlight Medicare's emphasis on preventive services, wellness visits, and screenings that can help them proactively manage their well-being.

8. Address Prescription Drug Coverage: Many seniors rely on prescription medications. Explain how Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs and discuss the importance of enrolling in a plan that aligns with their medication needs.

9. Simplify the Enrollment Process: The enrollment process can be overwhelming. Provide step-by-step guidance to help seniors navigate the paperwork and deadlines associated with Medicare enrollment.

10. Showcase Your Expertise: Highlight your experience and expertise in the Medicare insurance domain. Share case studies or success stories that showcase how your guidance has benefited other seniors.

11. Stay Up-to-Date: Medicare regulations and policies evolve. Stay informed about the latest updates and changes to ensure your advice is current and accurate.

12. Offer Post-Sale Support: Your relationship with seniors doesn't end after they enroll in a Medicare plan. Be available to address their questions, assist with claims, and provide ongoing support as their healthcare needs evolve.

Selling Medicare insurance to seniors goes beyond selling a policy – it's about offering a compassionate service that enhances their quality of life. By demonstrating your deep understanding of their healthcare concerns, presenting clear options, and providing continuous support, you become a trusted partner in their healthcare journey. Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the seniors you serve.

 

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Tags: Medicare Advantage plans, medicare supplement insurance, Marketing, Best Practices

LeadStar Direct: High-quality Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, and Final Expense leads

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Thu, Aug 10, 2023 @ 03:52 PM

Leadstar Direct

Your new source for Direct Mail Leads

  • Optimized Mailing List: Reach your target audience with precision using our targeted lists. Maximize your campaign's impact by mailing cards that respond well.
  • Built-in CRM Tool: Streamline your lead management process with our integrated CRM tool. Track and organize your leads effortlessly, saving time and improving productivity.
  • Compliant Lead Cards: Mail lead cards that have already passed through the vigorous compliance review.
  • Simple to Use: Enjoy an easy order process with our user-friendly platform and dedicated support team.

Medicare Supplement Direct Mail Leads

Envelope Mail Packs

Boost your sales success with high-quality Medicare Supplement leads. Our direct-mail campaign delivers targeted prospects seeking extra healthcare coverage with a proactive call-to-action.

Key features of this lead include:
  • Postage-Paid Response Card Mailed in Envelope
  • Easy CRM Lead Management
  • Direct Contact from Leads
  • NOTE: Minimum order quantity of 1,000 records
Medicare Advantage Direct Mail Leads

Envelope Mail Packs

Capture more sales opportunities with our exclusive Medicare Advantage direct-mail leads. Our direct-mail campaign connects you with interested prospects exploring comprehensive healthcare options.

Key features of this lead include:
  • Postage-Paid Response Card Mailed in Envelope
  • Easy CRM Lead Management
  • Direct Contact from Leads
  • NOTE: Minimum order quantity of 1,000 records
Final Expense Direct Mail Leads

Envelope Mail Packs

More qualified leads at a good volume. Our Final Expense direct-mail campaigns explicitly emphasizes "life insurance," ensuring a higher volume of qualified leads, making it an excellent option for agents seeking well-qualified prospects.

Key features of this lead include:
  • Postage-Paid Response Card Mailed in Envelope
  • Easy CRM Lead Management
  • Direct Contact from Leads
  • NOTE: Minimum order quantity of 1,000 records

Why Direct Mail?

Direct mail marketing to seniors offers distinct advantages by providing a targeted, personalized approach that leverages the familiarity and comfort of tangible communication, fostering trust and credibility while standing out amidst digital noise.

It caters to a demographic less reliant on technology, allowing for a less competitive and more engaging channel that enables seniors to review information at their own pace, while also offering localized targeting and trackable response mechanisms to tailor campaigns effectively for enhanced engagement.

 

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Tags: Insurance Marketing, direct mail, LeadStar

PSM - Your Partner in Growth

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Thu, Aug 10, 2023 @ 02:09 PM

Think Bigger

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Nassau: Products for a broad range of needs

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Thu, Aug 10, 2023 @ 01:50 PM

Nassau

At Nassau, their annuity portfolio is committed to providing comprehensive, customizable, and consistent retirement solutions.

Nassau Growth Annuity®
Powerful growth potential and options for generating future income.

Nassau Bonus Annuity®
Guaranteed up-front premium bonus combined with robust potential growth potential and options for generating future income.

Nassau Personal Income Annuity®
Strong guaranteed income for now and later in retirement.

Nassau Personal Protection Choice®
Customizable, multi-dimensional retirement protection.

Nassau Single Premium Fixed Indexed Annuity Product Suite Overview

Nassau Personal Income Annuity® | Nassau Personal Protection Choice® |
Nassau Growth Annuity® | Nassau Bonus Annuity®

WORKING HARDER TO BE YOUR CARRIER OF CHOICE

Not appointed with Nassau? Request details here

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Tags: Fixed Annuity, Nassau

New Medicare Marketing Rules Require Agents to Rethink Established Sales Practices

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Thu, Aug 10, 2023 @ 12:12 PM

Best Practices

“Medicare beneficiaries were at the center of the conversation when CMS enacted new marketing rules earlier this year. But with these changes agents may find they will need to pivot from their familiar marketing approach.”

Good news: PSM anticipated these changes and activated a task force to study the published rules and clarify any implications for agents.

More good news: With AEP a few short weeks away, agents have the tools to ensure your marketing efforts and activities are compliant with the new rules. Let’s look at the rules changes.

 

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Tags: CMS, Insurance Marketing, AEP

Introducing AdvantageGuard: A New Hospital indemnity Plan

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Thu, Aug 10, 2023 @ 12:12 PM

Your client's new option for help covering Medicare Advantage plan copays

AdvantageGuard offers broad, customizable solutions for clients seeking easy and reliable hospital indemnity coverage. With guaranteed issue coverage options for seniors aged 60-741 and a focus on flexibility and affordability, AdvantageGuard makes it easy to find the help they may need with unexpected costs.

Clients can choose the benefits that best fit their needs and budget, all backed by a insurer with an "A+" AM Best rating2. AdvantageGuard offers convenient cash benefits paid to the insured, making it a smart choice for clients who want help with covering out-of-pocket expenses, like their Medicare Advantage plan copays.

Explore AdvantageGuard Benefits:

  • Guaranteed issue options for ages 60-74
  • A health insurer with "A+" AM Best rating
  • Affordable/competitive premiums
  • 12-month commission advance
  • Outpatient prescription drug benefit rider
  • Benefit selection: AdvantageGuard offers flexibility in benefit selection, allowing individuals to choose the coverage options that best meet their needs and budget, and can be tailored to suit different preferences and circumstances.
  • No networks - benefits are the same regardless of network or provider

Icon_Calendar_2C_CirBlue_RGB        Icon_Award_2C_CirBlue_RGB_1        Icon_CheckMark_2C_CirBlue_RGB        Icon_Cost_2C_CirBlue_RGB        Icon_Network_2C_CirBlue_RGB

If you would like to get contracted to sell AdvantageGuard or other Golden Rule Insurance Company products, click here to get started.

Precision Senior Marketing is an independent broker agency offering plans underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company and other insurers.

UHC GR logo

 


 
1Guaranteed Issue cases must be equal to or less than the GI max allowable base and rider benefit selections. Applications submitted where one or more base or rider benefits exceeds the allowable GI max will be subject to Simplified underwriting.

212-month Commission Advance is only available through YourFMO.com, LLC. contract

3Payable per day (limits apply) when Insured Person receives a prescription delivered by injection in an outpatient provider setting.

4Ratings as of 12/09/2022. This worldwide, independent organization reviews insurance companies and other businesses and publishes opinions about them. This rating is an indication of financial strength and stability. For the latest rating, access www.ambest.com.

49985-G-0723

Agents Only. Not Intended For Consumer Use.

 

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Tags: Hospital Indemnity, Medicare Advantage, AEP

SEP Codes: The #1 Misused Code - MDE

Posted by www.psmbrokerage.com Admin on Wed, Aug 09, 2023 @ 11:55 AM

SEP Codes

It has come to our attention that the MDE SEP is the #1 misused SEP. Misusing this SEP may cause CMS to reject the application and can be time consuming for all parties involved. It is very important that agents understand how to use SEP codes correctly to avoid having applications rejected and corrective action issued.

SEP for Dual-Eligible Individuals and Other LIS-Eligible Individuals

Available to:

  • Medicare beneficiaries receiving any type of Medicaid assistance
  • Medicare beneficiaries who qualify for a low-income subsidy (LIS)



What the election can be used for:

If enrolled in:

  • Original Medicare - Then they may enroll into an MA-only, MAPD, or PDP
  • MA-only, MAPD, or PDP - Enroll into a different MA-only, MAPD, or PDP or Disenroll to Original Medicare

When can it be used:

  • Election can only be used once per calendar quarter between 1/1 and 9/30
  • Quarters are January to March, April to June, and July to September (based on enrollment receipt, not requested plan start date)
  • Election cannot be used between 10/1 and 12/31
  • Individuals identified as at-risk or potentially at-risk for abusing certain medications will not have their enrollment/disenrollment accepted by CMS
  • Limitation can last up to 24-months at a time

The effective date of an enrollment request made using this SEP is the first of the month following receipt of an enrollment request.

The disenrollment date will be the end of the month in which the disenrollment request is received.

Note: This SEP is separate from the “SEP for Individuals who Gain, Lose, or Have a Change in Their Dual or LIS-Eligible Status” and the two should not be used interchangeably. SEP Codes by rejectionLearn more about SEP Enrollment periods by viewing our SEP Guide.

 

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Tags: LIS, SEP

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