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If you are a Medicare agent just starting out, you are probably wondering how to make a Medicare sale. The first thing you need to know is, you will hear objections from prospects sometimes. Your prospects are concerned about worried about costs and coverage. They may also be confused about all the different plan types available and what they cover. It is extremely important to Address objections in order to close a sale. We will provide a few common sense strategies to answer any questions that arise during a Medicare sale.

As with all Medicare sales, It is essential that you follow CMS guidelines as well as compliant sales practices .

Watch our YouTube video on how to make a compliant phone recording

The most important skill in Medicare sales is Listening

The best way to overcome objections is to listen. If a prospect raises an objection, listen to everything they say carefully to understand their concerns. It is not helpful to interrupt with a counterargument. This practice does not express genuine interest or empathy. You need to truly understand what they are saying and then find a way to let them know you have an answer to the problem.

Show prospects empathy

Acknowledge their concerns and validate their feelings. Empathizing with each situation builds trust and rapport. let them know you understand their concerns and that their questions are valid. This shows your desire to understand them and will make them feel comfortable talking to you.

Give them information

In some situations, objections come up this may be due to a lack of information or misunderstanding information. Be sure you give clients enough time to understand their Medicare coverage options. Provide clear explanations of plans tailored to their needs and preferences. Use any resource you can find; brochures, online tools such as quoting tools or zoom meetings. These provide a visual aid to help explain more complex information.

Remember, each client is unique. Tailor your responses accordingly. If a client is concerned about out-of-pocket costs, discuss Medicare plans that offer cost-saving benefits, such as low premiums, low copays or value added benefits. If they are looking for a specific provider, make sure they are in network with any plan they are considering. These ar ejust a couple things in a list of many to discuss with your prospect.

Provide real answers

Do not dismiss any question; provide solutions that address the client’s concerns. For example, if budget is the main objection, discuss Medicare plan options with lower premiums or if appropriate, discuss financial assistance programs. Providing personalized solutions shows the client you are able to meet their coverage and budgetary needs.

Additional information

How to maintain your Medicare book

Ask them a few questions to determine if they have any coverage gaps. Find out if their agent mentioned ancillary products like cancer or hospital indemnity insurance and discuss the value this coverage provides.

Watch a quick YouTube video on the benefits of ancillary sales

Make the sale

After all questions are answered, present them with coverage options that fit their medical and budgetary needs. Be sure to emphasize the benefits of enrolling in a plan tailored to their needs and reassure them you will provide ongoing support and guidance.

Get some tips for telesales

It is not always easy to make a Medicare sale. Successful agents provide a combination of active listening, empathy, education, and solution-focused communication. By understanding clients’ concerns, providing relevant information, and offering personalized solutions, agents can successfully make the sale.

While the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) aims to lower healthcare costs and improve affordability for Medicare enrollees, some of its provisions have unintended consequences that could negatively impact both enrollees and agents. Here’s a look at how the IRA might be creating challenges:

Medicare Enrollees

Reduced Plan Choices

The changes in Medicare Part D, such as the $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket costs and restructuring cost-sharing, has prompted some insurers to consolidate plan options or exit the market. This has reduced the number of available plans, limiting options for enrollees. It is now more difficult to find one that fits their needs​.

Potential Premium Increases

Although the IRA caps Part D premium increases at 6% annually through 2029, insurers have still raised premiums to offset costs associated with the new pricing. Over time, enrollees could face much higher base premiums despite the cap​.

Watch a YouTube video on the 2K drug cap

Access Issues for Certain Drugs

The price negotiation provisions may incentivize manufacturers to limit supply or delay the release of new drugs to avoid price controls. This could potentially restrict access to innovative treatments​.

Confusion About New Benefits

While the Inflation Reduction Act introduces benefits like the $2,000 out-of-pocket cap and insulin price caps, navigating the changes can be confusing for somec enrollees, especially those unfamiliar with Medicare’s evolving rules.

Medicare Agents

Plan Consolidation Challenges

Fewer plans in the market reduce options for agents to recommend to clients. This has caused some difficulty when looking for a tailored plan that meets individual needs. This could limit agents’ value in the decision-making process.

Increased Administrative Burden

Explaining complex changes, such as price negotiations, out-of-pocket caps, and payment-smoothing programs, adds to the workload for agents. This is also time consuming when a client does not understand all the new rules an agent has to take more time with each appointment.

It is also causing frustration for agents who are trying to stay updated on all the continuously changing rules.

Impact on Earnings

Typically, agents earn commissions based on plan enrollments. If premium growth slows due to IRA provisions or if plan offerings shrink, this could reduce commission opportunities. Additionally, fewer plan options might lead to less competitive commissions as well as removal of some commissions altogether.

Agents, Take a look at our video on non-commissionable PDP plans

Client Frustrations

Many agents will face dissatisfied clients due to changes such as; drug formulary limitations or plan modifications that don’t meet expectations. Clients will also be upset by the rising premium and deductible costs. Agents will be stuck trying to manage these frustrations while maintaining the clients trust.

Other Considerations

The Inflation Reduction Act’s reforms target long-standing issues in Medicare, such as high drug prices and inconsistent cost-sharing. However, its implementation complicates things for enrollees navigating new benefits and for agents who must continually adapt to changes in the market. Dealing with these challenges requires education, advocacy, and possible regulatory adjustments.

CMS can provide further information and updates to the Inflation Reduction Act.

Medicare Part D in 2025: What You Need to Know

The prescription drug program, Medicare Part D 2025, is changing is significant ways. There are many updates to the program in an effort to reduce costs and improve affordability for beneficiaries. Take a look at the information below to see how these updates may effect both beneficiaries and agents.

Fewer plans available

Unfortunately, the average number of stand-alone Medicare Part D plans will decrease in 2025, with about 20 to 25 plans typically available in most states. The number of plan sponsors offering stand-alone PDPs will decrease from 11 in 2024 to 7 in 2025. In 2025 there will be only 464 plans available compared to 709 in 2024. This reduction highlights how important it is to compare plans carefully before making an enrollment decision.

Spending Cap

A major update is the introduction of a $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket spending for covered prescription drugs. Once the beneficiary reaches the limit, they do not pay any additional costs for medications covered under their plan. This change also eliminates the “donut hole” or coverage gap. This has been a long-standing concern for many enrollees​.

Agents – watch a YouTube video that explains the Drug Cap for 2025

Premiums and Costs

It is estimated that the average stand-alone Part D plan premium will be about $61.98. Although, weighted enrollment trends suggest a decline in cost to about $39.36 for many due to increased enrollment in lower-cost plans.

CMS approved the standard Part D deductible to increase to $590. Please note; the deductible does not apply to lower-tier drugs on many plans​.

Payment Smoothing

A new “payment smoothing” program will allow beneficiaries to spread out their out-of-pocket drug costs evenly over the course of the year. This may help ease some financial strain for those who take expensive drugs.

Learn more about PDP plan costs

Affordable Insulin and Vaccines

In 2025, Insulin copays remain capped at $35 for a 30-day supply, and vaccines that are recommended by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will continue to be available at no cost​ to Medicare PDP plan enrollees.

Why These Changes Matter

The redesign of Part D for 2025 focuses on affordability and accessibility. The cap on out-of-pocket spending, elimination of the coverage gap, and payment smoothing aim to reduce financial barriers, particularly for those who require expensive medications. These changes underscore the importance of reviewing plan options during the Annual Election Period to find one that best fits the beneficiary’s needs.

Please note; plan offerings can vary significantly by state.

For more information, consult resources such as the Medicare.gov website or a licensed Medicare agent to explore plan options tailored to your specific needs.

If you are a Medicare agent and want to join the team at Crowe; click here for online contracting.

Medicare provides crucial health coverage for millions of Americans, but timing is everything when it comes to enrollment. In some cases, missing the initial enrollment period can result in Medicare late enrollment penalties and a lapse in coverage.

We will provide some information about Medicare enrollment periods and how to avoid late enrollment penalties.

Enrollment periods for Original Medicare

1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): A 7-month window that starts 3 months before the 65th birthday, includes the birthday month, and extends 3 months after.
2. Special Enrollment Periods (SEP): Available for certain qualifying life events, such as losing employer-based coverage.
3. General Enrollment Period (GEP): Each year from January 1 to March 31 there is a general enrollment period for those who missed other enrollment opportunities.

Those who don’t sign up during their IEP and don’t qualify for an SEP may face late enrollment penalties.

Late enrollment penalties

1. Medicare Part A

Most people receive Part A premium-free if either they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. Although, if you must pay for Part A and do not enroll during your IEP, your monthly premium increases by 10%. This penalty applies for twice the number of years you delayed enrollment.

2. Medicare Part B

Those who neglect to sign up for Part B when either first eligible for Medicare or if they come off a qualified healthcare plan such as employer coverage receive a penalty.

The penalty they pay is a 10% increase in their monthly premium for every 12-month period they were eligible but didn’t enroll. The penalty applies to their premium for as long as they have Part B coverage.

3. Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)

The Part D penalty is a 1% increase in the “national base beneficiary premium” for every month they went without Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D) or other creditable prescription drug coverage.

Click here for the Part D late enrollment penalty calculator

Unfortunately, this penalty is similar to the Part B penalty and applies to the monthly premium for life as long as the beneficiary has Part D coverage.

GEP (General Enrollment Period)

Those who miss enrolling in Medicare Parts A or B during their IEP can sign up during the GEP. This enrollment period runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. Coverage starts the month after they sign up.

Please note: Those who use the GEP to enroll in Medicare A and/or B qualify for a Part D SEP to enroll o in a prescription drug plan. The SEP starts once they apply for Part A or Part B and lasts for two months. Prescription drug coverage starts the first day of the month after the month of enrollment.

Avoid Late Enrollment Penalties

1. Be aware of the IEP (Initial Enrollment Period) . Do not delay enrollment. It is important to sign up before the 7-month window for enrollment closes.
2. Make sure you maintain creditable coverage if you are on employer-sponsored health coverage. Be sure to your coverage qualifies as creditable to avoid penalties.
3. In the event you lose creditable coverage, use an SEP quickly to avoid a lapse in coverage.
4. Consult a licensed Medicare agent for advice and assistance navigating enrollment periods and eligibility requirements.

Watch our YouTube video on Medicare Enrollment Periods

Please note: individuals who have income and resources below specific limits may qualify for financial assistance programs and may not have to pay late enrollment penalties.

To Sum it up

Missing Medicare enrollment deadlines can result in significant penalties and coverage delays. Those either nearing 65 or managing Medicare on behalf of a loved one must be proactive to avoid making costly mistakes.

Many people have probably heard about some Medicare insurers suing CMS over their Star Ratings. This may lead to questions about Why Medicare Star ratings are important.

Star Ratings are determined annually by the CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services). The ratings apply to Medicare Advantage and Part D (prescription drug plans).

They can help enrollees decide which plan is best in areas that are important to them. Choosing the right plan can impact both healthcare and finances. That is why CMS developed the Star rating system

What Are Star Ratings

Medicare Star Ratings evaluate the quality and performance of Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans. Each plan is rated on a scale from 1 to 5 stars, with 5 being the highest. These ratings are updated each year and are based on many factors such as:

Customer satisfaction: This is based on customer ratings of each plan.

Clinical outcomes: How effective is the plan at keeping it’s members healthy.

Customer service: How do customers rate the responsiveness and support they received from plan representatives.

Drug safety and accuracy: This applies to Part D plans and it helps ensure safe and correct use of prescription drugs.

Why Medicare Star Ratings matter

1. Assessing Plan Quality: Star ratings give beneficiaries an easy-to-understand measure of a plan’s overall quality. Higher-rated plans generally provide better services, improved outcomes, and higher levels of customer satisfaction.
2. Influencing Plan Selection: Many beneficiaries use star ratings as one of the deciding factors when they compare plans. A higher star rating may mean a plan is more likely to meet healthcare needs.
3. Access to Special Enrollment: If a plan receives a 5-star rating, it qualifies for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This allows beneficiaries to switch to a 5-star plan one time per calendar year outside of standard enrollment periods. This can be crucial for individuals looking for better coverage options.
4. Improved Health Outcomes: Plans with higher ratings often prioritize preventive care, chronic condition management, and overall wellness. This can lead to better health outcomes for members.
5. Impact on Plan Providers: Medicare Star Ratings incentivize providers to improve their performance. Plans with higher ratings may receive additional bonuses from CMS, which can lead to reinvestment in member benefits and services.

Other things to consider

Although Medicare Star Ratings are essential, they shouldn’t be the only factor anyone’s health coverage decision. Here are some additional considerations:

Plan costs: Enrollees must compare premiums, deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums.

What the plan covers: It is imperative to be sure the preferred doctors & hospitals are in network as well as coverage of necessary medications.

Individual needs: Although one plan may have a lower rating than another it still may be a better choice for the individual depending on personal preferences and needs.

Use Star Ratings

Licensed Medicare agents can help compare plan options as well as using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool to compare plans and view star ratings. Be sure that details about coverage, costs, and benefits are clear before making a choice.

Medicare counselors, brokers, agents, or state health insurance assistance programs (SHIPs) can help interpret ratings and assist beneficiaries in choosing the best coverage.

Medicare Star Ratings are a way to evaluate quality and performance of Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Understanding what the ratings mean and how to use them effectively, can help beneficiaries make informed decisions about healthcare coverage.

If you are a Medicare agent and you wan tot join the team at Crowe, click here.

The ACA open enrollment period for 2025 begins November 1, 2024 and ends with the ACA open enrollment deadline 2025 on January 15, 2025. Please note, this is the deadline in most states, some states have a different deadline. 

Here are the states that have their own deadlines:

1. California, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and DC – Open enrollment ends Jan 31, 2025.
2. Idaho – Open enrollment deadline is Dec 16, 2024.
3. Massachusetts – Open enrollment ends on Jan 23, 2025.

ACA Open Enrollment

During the 2025 ACA open enrollment period, beneficiaries can either enroll in a new ACA health plan or renew their current coverage.

For those who enroll by December 15, 2024, coverage begins on January 1, 2025. For enrollments submitted between December 16, 2024, and January 15, 2025, coverage is effective as of February 1, 2025.

Agents, click here for ACA contracting

Watch our YouTube video on ACA contracting

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)

If you miss the Open Enrollment deadline, you may still have the opportunity to get coverage through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). SEPs are triggered by qualifying life events such as:

1. Losing health insurance.
2. Changes in household, including marriage, divorce, or birth of a child
3. Moving to a new area that offers different pan choices

Usually, enrollees have 60 days from the date of the event to enroll in a new health plan. It’s important to act quickly to avoid a lapse in coverage.

Medicaid and CHIP Enrollment

For those who qualify, Medicaid and CHIP (the Children’s Health Insurance Program) allow year-round enrollment. These programs provide either low-cost or free health coverage to qualified individuals and families. It is easy to check eligibility on each states ACA enrollment website of by visiting healthcare.gov or your states Medicaid office.

Enrollment Process

1. Consider healthcare needs and budget to help decide what type of plan will be the best fit.
2. Use tools on HealthCare.gov to compare plan coverage, costs, and provider networks.
3. Many individuals/families qualify for a subsidy like premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions to make coverage more affordable.
4. Gather necessary documents such as Social Security numbers, proof of income such as paystubs or other documents, and current insurance information.
5. Licensed navigators, brokers, and other resources are available to help with the enrollment process.

Avoid common problems

Do not put off enrollment until the last minute. This helps to avoid making hasty decisions and lets enrollees consider their options and get coverage in a timely manor and avoid gaps in coverage.

Make sure all the information entered is accurate, mistakes can cause delays in coverage or even denials.

For those renewing coverage; be sure to understand plan changes and updates to ensure the plan is still the best option.

The ACA Marketplace

The ACA marketplace is an important resource for millions of Americans. It provides comprehensive health coverage for many people who may not otherwise have it.

Healthcare agents, click here for ACA certifications and training

Click here for a Demo of the ACA Agent and Agency Portal

For more information, visit HealthCare.gov or contact your state’s marketplace.

Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) is essential for anyone enrolled in Medicare. Additionally, it is equally important that both agents and enrollees understand the Medicare Part D enrollment periods.

IEP (Initial Enrollment Period)

The IEP ( Initial Enrollment Period) is the beneficiaries first opportunity to enroll in Medicare coverage, this includes Part D. IEP is a 7 month window that begins three months before the month the beneficiary turns 65. It includes their birthday month and ends three months after their 65 birthday month.

Individuals who are eligible for Medicare due to disability have an IEP that starts three months before their eligibility date and ends three months after their 25th month of disability benefits.

During this period, beneficiaries can either enroll in a standalone Part D plan or an MAPD (Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage).

AEP (Annual Enrollment Period)

The AEP (Annual Enrollment Period), sometimes referred to as Open Enrollment, takes place annually from October 15 to December 7. During this time, beneficiaries can enroll in a Part D (PDP) plan if they miss their IEP. They can also switch from one Part D plan to another or enroll in an MAPD plan. As long as they have Part D coverage.

Please note: any changes in coverage made during AEP take effect on January 1st of the following year.

MA OEP (Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period)

This enrollment period runs from Jan 1 through March 31 each year and is only available to those already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. This provides enrollees an additional opportunity to make changes to their current MA/MAPD plan.

During the MA OEP beneficiaries can change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan either with or without Part D coverage. They can also disenroll from a Medicare Advantage plan and go back to Original Medicare with the option to enroll in a stand alone Part D plan and a Medicare Supplement. Please note the beneficiary must have a guaranteed issue election or pass underwriting to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan.

Watch a quick YouTube video on OEP best practices

SEPs (Special Enrollment Periods)

SEPs (Special Enrollment Periods) allow beneficiaries to make changes to Part D coverage outside the standard enrollment windows under specific circumstances, such as:

Losing other creditable drug coverage: If the enrollee loses employer sponsored coverage or their plan is discontinued in their service area, they have 63 days to enroll in a Part D plan after losing coverage.

Moving to a new service area: If the current plan isn’t available in their new location, the enrollee is eligible for an SEP.

Qualifying for Extra Help: Individuals eligible for Medicare’s Extra Help program can change their Part D plan once per calendar quarter during the first three quarters of the year.

LEP (Late Enrollment Penalty)

It’s important for beneficiaries to enroll in Part D coverage when first eligible to avoid the late enrollment penalty. The penalty applies if they go without creditable prescription drug coverage for a period of 63 consecutive days or more once their IEP is over.

The penalty is calculated based on how the beneficiary went without coverage and is added to their monthly premium amount for life.

How to choose the right plan

1. It is imperative to check all medications to see which plan provides the best coverage for them. All plans have their own formulary.
2. Compare the plans that cover the drugs best. Consider all costs for each plan. The cost includes the premium as well as deductibles, copays and coinsurance.
3. Make sure the plan is in network the preferred pharmacy to ensure you get the best price.
4. Because plan costs and coverage changes each year, it is important to review coverage options each year during the AEP.
5. Ask for assistance from a licensed Medicare agent who is appointed with several area carriers to provide the best options for coverage. The medicare.gov tool is a good way to check prices but it cannot answer your specific questions.

Understanding Medicare Part D enrollment periods and rules can save money and ensure you have the coverage you need.

If a client asks what a Medicare Advantage Plan covers, keep reading and get some answers. Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, provide a comprehensive alternative to Original Medicare. Private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare offer the plans. The plans must cover all services covered by Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Although, Medicare Advantage plans usually provide more than just the basic coverage. Most plans provide additional benefits that make them more attractive to many beneficiaries.

Core benefits

Hospital coverage:

Just like Medicare Part A, Medicare Advantage plans cover inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, and hospice care.

Medical Services:

Advantage plans cover the same standard Part B services as Original Medicare. This includes coverage of doctor visits, outpatient medical care, preventive services, and medical equipment.

Additional benefits

Many Medicare Advantage plans include services that Original Medicare doesn’t cover. The items below are not included in all plans as each plan varies by provider, state and exact location.

Prescription Drug Coverage:

Medicare Advantage plans labeled MAPD include prescription drug coverage (Part D) many prescription medications. If the Advantage plan is labeled MA only, it does not include prescription drug coverage.

Vision Services:

Some plans cover routine eye exams as well as some coverage for glasses and contact lenses.

Hearing Services:

Hearing coverage in some plans include hearing exams and a portion of the cost for hearing aids.

Dental Care:

Dental coverage is one of the most popular benefits that is often included in Medicare Advantage Plans. Many plans cover routine dental exams, cleanings, and sometimes restorative dental procedures.

Wellness Programs:

Many plans offer a reimbursement or a free fitness membership as well as other incentives to encourage members to practice healthy living habits.

Other Advantage Plan benefits:

Some plans provide things like; transportation services to and from medical appointments. While others provide OTC benefit cards that members can use for over the counter products, healthy foods or even to help pay utility bills or numerous other items. It is important to remember, each plan offers different benefits.

Plan costs

At present, many Medicare Advantage plans offer low to no cost plan options. Plan enrollees are required to pay a monthly Part B premium in addition to any plan premium they might have. Other costs include deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. The amount of these costs vary depending on the specific plan. Although some plans offer $0 premiums, it’s important to review all out-of-pocket costs.

Plan networks

Medicare Advantage plans use a specific network of providers. In general, there are a few different types of plans, The two main plans are either part of an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) or PPO (Preferred Provider Organization). Whatever plan a beneficiary considers, they must be sure their doctors and hospitals are part of the plan’s network to avoid paying higher costs.

Limitations and Considerations

Although Medicare Advantage plans may include some great added benefits, beneficiaries need to consider their limitations. Their limitations include the network restriction; if the member needs to use care outside the network, they may pay added fees or even the entire cost of some care.

HMO plans require enrollees to have specialist visits approved by their primary provider before they seek care. This can add to the time it takes to receive treatment. Enrollees may also have trouble seeking care outside their plan’s immediate service area.

If a beneficiary suffers from a serious illness such as cancer; they may have to pay a percentage of the cost of their treatment until they reach their maximum out of pocket.

Choosing the Right Plan

Selecting a Medicare Advantage plan requires careful consideration of the beneficiary’s healthcare needs, budget, and preferred providers. It is essential to understand what is important to each individual and compare plans that provide the closest match to the client’s needs and wants. Licensed insurance agents can be an integral part of finding the best fit for the beneficiary.

If you are an agent who is ready to join the team at Crowe, click here for online contracting.

Medicare Advantage plans are great option for those looking for coverage at a low cost that offers additional benefits. However, it’s essential to understand the details of each plan to ensure it aligns with the healthcare needs and financial situation of each person.

If you are a Member of one of the many UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans in 2025, you may have access to the UnitedHealthcare UCard 2025 benefit. UnitedHealthcare is the only place Medicare beneficiaries can get a UCard.

The Ucard is a member ID and so much more. This card provides members access to a very large provider network that includes both PCPs and Specialists. Plan Members can use the card to pay for approved OTC items as well as healthy food. Purchase approved items from well known stores like; Walmart and Walgreens and more.

Learn the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans

When to use the UCard

If you are Medicare beneficiary and choose to enroll in a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan for 2025, you will receive a UnitedHealthcare UCard in the mail.

Plan enrollees can use their cards when:

Show your UCard at the front desk when you visit a healthcare provider. Each time you have an appointment with your doctor remember to bring your card so they can properly bill UnitedHealthcare for any approved services you receive.

At the start of each year or when you first get your card, show it to your pharmacy so they can fill your covered prescriptions.

Use the UCard to purchase healthy food, approved OTC items or to pay a utility bill. Use the credit amount loaded on your card as payment at the register when you check out. Please note: benefits differ between plans and service areas.

Members can earn rewards for practicing healthy habits. The rewards are loaded onto your card so you can use them in-store at thousands of retailers nationwide.

when you check in at an in-network gym or fitness location of your choice, just show your UCard and receive a free membership.

UCard Hub

The UCard Hub lets Members see all their benefits 24/7. They can also view their rewards and benefit balances and. They just need to click on the UCard Hub link in either the UHC member site or click on the following link for instructions to download the UnitedHealthcare app. Once in the UCard Hub, members can:

1. Look up available rewards and benefit balances
2. Locate stores that participate with the UnitedHealthcare program
3. See a list of covered products and shop online
4. Find answers to common questions

Please note: benefits vary by plan as well as service area.

See why you should use a Medicare agent to help you find a plan

Many Medicare beneficiaries will receive new Medicare cards. This is due to a breach of PII (personally identifiable information) as well as some personal health information. CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) and WPS (Wisconsin Physicians Service Insurance Corporation) are sending out notifications to individuals who’s information may be at risk.

This incident occurred in connection with WPS and the Medicare administrative services they provided for CMS. WPS is a contractor that CMS hired to handle Medicare Part A and B claims and related services. Apparently a specific software application WPS used to transfer files showed a potential risk. This may have caused personal information of Medicare beneficiaries as well as other individuals who use the same providers to be as risk.

What personal information is at risk

Some information that may be at risk due to the incident are:

1. Name
2. Date of birth
3. Social Security number or taxpayer ID
4. Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI)
5. Mailing address
6. Hospital/provider account numbers
7. Health insurance claim number
8. Date of service

Who is receiving the notices

Both CMS and WPS are sending written notices to the 946,801 Medicare beneficiaries who may be affected. The notice lets them know about the breach as well as what they are doing in response.

Additionally; CMS is posting a notice for those who may not receive the written notice due to lack of correct contact information. See below for a sample of the letter WPS is sending:

Dear_______________:

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal agency that manages the Medicare program, and Wisconsin Physicians Service Insurance Corporation (WPS), are writing to inform you of an incident involving your personal information related to services provided by WPS. WPS is a CMS contractor that handles certain Medicare claims in your state.

The incident involved a security vulnerability in the MOVEit software, a third-party application used by WPS for the transfer of files during the Medicare claims process. WPS is among the many organizations in the United States that have been impacted by the MOVEit vulnerability.

We are sending you this letter so that you can understand more about this incident, how we are addressing it, and additional steps you can take to further protect your privacy. We are providing information on free credit monitoring with this notice, and we will be giving you a new Medicare card with a new Medicare Number.

Your current Medicare benefits or coverage are not affected as a result of this incident.

What CMS is doing about this

CMS and WPS are working together along with law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity forensic consultants to investigate the incident. CMS is taking all actions necessary to protect the personal information of Medicare beneficiaries.

What Medicare beneficiaries can do

WPS is providing those effected with a free Experian 12 month credit monitoring service. It is a good idea to take advantage of this. Beneficiaries do not provide any form of payment information to enroll in this service.

It is important to take advantage of free credit reporting services. Everyone is entitled to a free report every 12 months from the three major credit reporting agencies:

Request a copy of your credit report: 

Visit the Experian website or call (888) 397-3742

Call TransUnion at (800) 916-8800 

Visit the Equifax website or call (888) 378-4329 

Beneficiaries can also call 1-877-322-8228 or request your free credit reports online at annualcreditreport.com.  Once you receive the report, check for issues or inquiries for new accounts you did not request.

Monitoring credit is a way to detect problems early and address issues quickly. Contact law enforcement about suspicious activity and get a copy of any reports filed to send to creditors as proof. Beneficiaries can also file a report with the FTC either on their website by phone 1-877-idtheft (1-877-438-4338) or by mail Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Response Center, 600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20580.

Medicare Cards

Beneficiaries will continue to use their existing Medicare card. CMS is sending new cards with new MBIs for those who may affected. Once the beneficiary receives the new card, they should follow the instructions that come with the card. The instructions will include when to start using the new card. Beneficiaries should destroy their old card at that time. It is important that they give the new number to their providers to avoid delays in payments.

Learn why using a Medicare agent can be a great idea.   

More Information

Beneficiaries who have questions about this can call the confidential toll-free Experian response line at 833-931-5700. Just provide engagement number B130492, there are professionals familiar with this incident and can advise how to protect yourself from information misuse. Reach the professionals at the response line Monday -Friday 8 am – 8 pm Central Time (excluding major U.S. holidays).