CMS Announces Medicare Advantage and Part D Proposed Rule for CY 2026: Key Impacts for Brokers and TPMOs
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced the proposed rule for Contract Year (CY) 2026 affecting Medicare Advantage (MA) and Medicare Part D programs. These updates aim […]
CMS Releases 2025 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles
On November 8, 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the 2025 premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts for the Medicare Part A and Part B programs, and […]
Urgent Update on Non-Commissionable Medicare Plans and How You Can Help Protect Our Role
The recent rapid changes in Medicare commissionable plans have left many agents across the country unsettled. Major carriers, including Wellcare, Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, and more to come next week, have shifted plans […]
CMS Issues New MBIs to Beneficiaries: What Brokers Need to Know
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has started issuing new Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers (MBIs) to about 1.2 million beneficiaries. This update addresses specific cases where MBIs were compromised […]
Changes to Medicare in 2025 Affect Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs)
Key Takeaways for Brokers The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the Medicare Final Rule for 2025, which includes significant changes that will impact Dual Eligible Special […]
Why Your Pre-Season AEP Playbook Should Include Direct Mail Campaigns
We all know the word on the street: this is going to be the BIGGEST AEP we’ve ever seen. With the potential to capture a whole new level of business, […]
Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) Compensation Updates
As 2025 approaches, significant changes are on the horizon for Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs), largely driven by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). These changes include the elimination of the Coverage Gap (or “donut hole”), a new $2,000 out-of-pocket spending cap, and adjustments in cost-sharing responsibilities during the catastrophic coverage phase.
In light of these shifts, Wellcare has made the difficult decision to cease new and renewal commissions for their PDP products starting January 1, 2025. Meanwhile, Aetna’s SilverScript Choice PDP will be offered as a non-commissionable product nationwide, with renewal commissions continuing on existing commissionable business.
Stay informed and prepared as these updates will impact your approach to PDP offerings in the upcoming year.
From Corporate to Independent; How One Broker Found Flexibility & Fulfillment
This blog highlights Lauren Bayha’s inspiring journey from corporate life to becoming an independent insurance broker. Discover how her drive for independence, coupled with the crucial support of her FMO, Trusted American Insurance Agency, and the mentorship and networking opportunities through associations like SAHU, has empowered her to build a successful business while achieving a balanced life. Read on to learn about the key factors that fueled her transition and growth.
CMS Announces 2025 Part D Bid & Premium Stabilization Demonstration Program
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced some exciting developments for Medicare Part D. On July 29, 2024, alongside preliminary 2025 Medicare Part D bid information, CMS […]
Important Update from CMS! Is Employer sponsored health insurance coverage still creditable in 2025?
CMS recently released the Final Calendar Year (CY) 2025 Part D Redesign Program Instructions that provides guidance regarding the implementation of section 11201 of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 […]