Signing Up for Medicare Through a Broker
How Medicare Health Insurance Brokers Can Help
You’re not alone if you need some help sorting through Medicare Advantage plans. It’s common to feel a bit confused when it comes to picking the right plan that fully supports your health goals, your lifestyle and your budget.
What’s a Medicare Advantage broker?
Medicare brokers are licensed insurance professionals who understand how Medicare Advantage works. They can narrow down your choices, explain coverage options, answer questions and clarify any unfamiliar terms.
Unlike Medicare agents, who may have limited knowledge and plan options, brokers have extensive experience and can contract with multiple insurance companies to include the best plan and prices. Choose a licensed Medicare broker who can help you with Medicare Parts A & B, Medicare Supplemental plans, Part D prescription coverage and Medicare Advantage plans in your area.
Who needs a Medicare insurance broker?
Someone who needs extra help comparing plans can benefit from working with a broker. You may feel confident about your plan choice and do not need help. However, if you’re at all unsure or overwhelmed by all the Medicare options, a broker can help smooth the process.
Experienced Medicare Advantage brokers are certified, trained and undergo annual testing. They follow rules set by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and can only sell plans in the state or region where they are licensed.
Most brokers want to help you find the best plan — that’s their job. However, it’s wise to ask questions and ensure they focus on your unique needs. A trustworthy broker will be upfront, honest and have your best interest in mind.
How do Medicare brokers get paid?
Insurance companies pay Medicare brokers after they assist someone in enrolling in a plan. You don’t have to pay them. Medicare rules typically determine their pay, and they’ll receive the same amount regardless of which plan you choose.
To find local health insurance brokers, consider asking your physician or friends and family who are on Medicare.* The National Council on Aging (NCOA) provides the Medicare Standards of Excellence list, where members can search for doctors and other reputable providers.
What to Ask an Insurance Broker to Get the Best Plan
Licensing and certification
- Are you licensed in my state for drug coverage, Medigap plans and Medicare Advantage?
- When was your last annual certification?
- Have you been disciplined by a state insurance department or by CMS?
Breadth of choice
- Which carriers do you work with? (Don’t limit your options.)
- Please explain how I can enroll on my own if I want.
Needs-based approach
- What medical information do you need before recommending plans?
- How do you compare my total annual cost (premium + copays + drug costs)?
- Can we search my provider network to select pharmacies, doctors or dentists?
Explanation of trade-offs
- Can you explain differences between Medicare Advantage and Medigap, including prior authorization and out-of-pocket costs?
- Explain how STAR ratings and CMS sanctions factor into your suggestions.
Compensation and conduct
- How are you paid on each of the plans, initial commission and bonuses?
- Do any of your carriers offer incentives, trips or marketing allowances that influence your advice?
Post-enrollment support
- Will you complete the application with me and confirm it was accepted?
- After enrollment, whom do I call with issues about billing or ID cards?
- Explain what to do during an annual plan review during Open Enrollment.
Compliance and privacy
- May I have a copy of the Scope of Appointment form before discussing plans?
- How do you protect my personal information and comply with CMS regulations?
Special circumstances
- How would you handle adding a new chronic condition into my insurance plan?
- Can you coordinate with my financial planner or caregiver with my permission?
A good broker can offer comprehensive services beyond finding the perfect plan. They can help with compliance, wellness programs and even claims processing. A licensed broker will always demonstrate transparency and confidence in the health insurance marketplace choices they offer.
Enroll now
Call 866-747-8855 to join a Prominence Medicare Advantage plan. Our provider network presently offers members access to quality medical services in Florida, Nevada and Texas.
* All benefits not available on all plans
Enroll in a Prominence Health Plan Medicare Advantage plan.
The comprehensive provider network offers members excellent access to quality medical services.
