Medicare Connecture Comparison: Sunfire vs Connecture vs MyMedicarebot
There are many different quote and enrollment programs that agents and agencies can use to assist their perspectives and beneficiaries find plans, compare plans, enroll in coverage, and even find doctors and hospitals in-network. Three of the most commonly used are SunFire Matrix, Connecture, and MyMedicarebot.
All three of these online programs are free to use for agents with Crowe and Associates and can be accessed through connect4medicare.com. Additionally, all three platforms work in a similar manner. They allow agents to quote and compare plans and enroll clients without the need for a face-to-face meeting. Here are some of the features they have in common:
Basic CRM functions that can save client information, applications, scope of appointment documents, drug lists, and plan history
Ability to text or email plan comparisons to prospective clients
To run doctor and drug lists against plans to see which has the most comprehensive coverage
Record all phone calls in compliance with the CMS regulations (updated for 2024)
Enroll prospects over the phone with text or email
Ability to see and compare all plans even if the agent is not contracted with that carrier
Much of what these programs do is interchangeable, but they are different programs and thus have some individual features.
SunFire Matrix’s press says that they provide transformative and proven technology solutions to support the Medicare landscape. Their software has been used to secure coverage for over 50 million senior citizens. Due to their size, they can collect and distill data from more than 80 insurance carriers, offering a total of more than 1300 Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug insurance plans. Like the other programs on this list, SunFire can save the prospective’s personal information in order to identify the ideal plan with the lowest annual cost for an agent to enroll them in.
Connecture is advertised as the most personalized software for quotes and enrollment for agents and agencies. It is also referred to as Connect4Medicare. The idea behind this level of personalization is that it helps not only drive enrollment, but helps protect against dissatisfaction and plan disenrollment as well. Connecture is a commonly-used platform for small to mid-sized agencies. They are also the largest Health plan-FMO-Agent distribution network in Medicare and thus can provide access to more information than some of the smaller software companies.
MyMedicarebot is yet another software program that can quote and enroll prospective clients. However, they are unique on this list in that they have the ability to record both sales and enrollment calls in compliance with the CMS regulations for AEP 2024 and have integrated call analytics for agent and agency usage. MyMedicarebot also offers a Portfolio Analytics and Consulting feature that can distill data from CMS, competitive marketing intelligence, and the unique user membership and identify the best markets and prospects. This level of personalization is meant to optimize sales and retention.
While all three of these commonly used software programs have the ability to do the basics of quotes and enrollment for agents and agencies, they all have certain individual features that may make one a better choice than another, depending on the agency’s needs.
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Connecticut is one of the states in the nation that offers access to financial assistance programs for eligible Medicare beneficiaries. Some of the services that the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) can help pay for are Medicare part B premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance. Depending on the beneficiary’s income, if they qualify for one of the three Medicare Savings Programs, the Department of Social Services will offer financial assistance for the Medicare Part B premium each month. Some seniors may also be eligible for financial assistance for Medicare deductibles and coinsurance. Connecticut’s Medicare Savings Program is funded by Medicaid. The following are some frequently asked questions about MSPs.
Yes, you can. Medicare Savings Programs and Medicaid are two separate programs and the medical coverage is different for both of them.
If you have traditional Medicare, then you can see any healthcare provider that is a participating provider in Medicare. Seniors on a Medicare Advantage plan are limited to a network of providers chosen by the insurance carrier. However, the MSP works with both of these plans.
Yes, you must file an application in order to receive the assistance from a Medicare Savings Program. Enrollment in an MSP is voluntary, meaning you can stop at any time even if you still qualify financially for the assistance.
There is a short application form that must be sent to the Department of Social Services. There is no supporting documentation needed unless the DSS requests it from you. The application form is #W-1QMB or W-1QMBS (Spanish version).
Mail the application form to:
DSS ConneCT Scanning Center
PO Box 1320
Manchester, CT 06045-1320
You can also enroll online through https://www.connect.ct.gov.
It may take the DSS up to 45 days to review your application. However, if eligible, benefits are backdated to the day the office received your application.
Yearly. A month or so before the expiration date, beneficiaries receive a notice explaining that they are due for a review of coverage and a renewal form, which must be sent to the DSS scanning center.
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Selling Medicare Advantage plans from home is both a viable and rewarding career option for those passionate about helping beneficiaries find the right healthcare coverage. Because of the growing demand for comprehensive plans, Medicare advantage carriers are offering more and more benefits. this gives agents a fantastic amount of options to fit their client’s needs.
If you stay up-to-date with industry trends as well as your education of plan options and compliance standards, you can build a thriving home-based business. You can also make a positive impact on the lives of Medicare beneficiaries.
The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and with an aging population, the demand for Medicare Advantage plans is on the rise. For individuals who want a flexible and rewarding career, selling Medicare Advantage plans from home is an attractive option. We will discuss the benefits of selling Medicare Advantage plans remotely.
Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C), is a private health insurance option offered to Medicare beneficiaries. The insurance companies must have their plans approved by CMS. This is an alternative way for beneficiaries to receive Medicare benefits. Plans often include additional coverage for services not covered by Original Medicare. The additional benefits include things such as; dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, OTC coverage.
The popularity of Medicare Advantage plans has been growing steadily in recent years. Because beneficiaries are looking for comprehensive coverage and additional benefits, the demand for these plans has increased greatly. As a result, selling Medicare Advantage plans is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to start a home-based business.
One important advantage of selling Medicare Advantage plans from home is the flexibility it offers. As an independent agent, you can create your own schedule. This will allow you to balance your work and personal life as needed.
Starting a home-based business selling Medicare Advantage plans requires a much lower initial investment compared to a traditional store front. You’ll need a computer, phone, internet connection, and the necessary licenses in place to start.
Because you are working from your computer, you are not bound by a physical location. In other words, you can reach clients wherever you go. This can expand your market reach.
Before you start selling Medicare Advantage plans, you need to obtain the required licenses aa well as complete the necessary certifications. This usually involves passing state-specific exams and completing relevant carrier training programs.
It is very helpful to create good relationships with your local insurance carrier reps. Carrier reps can offer you important services such as help with applications, marketing money and opportunities to represent their product. It is a good idea to run quotes for the area you plan to sell in and find the most competitive carrier choices to add to your offerings.
Both networking and marketing play a crucial role in building a book of business. Online platforms, social media, and community events are all good ways to reach potential clients. Building trust and rapport with people is key. If you prove to be approachable, helpful and informative, you can expect clients to recommend your services to others.
In order to sell Medicare plans, you must adhere to all rules and regulations set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It is very important to stay up-to-date with changes in the industry, as non-compliance can lead to severe penalties.
Continuing education and training are essential to stay relevant in the ever-changing healthcare landscape. Many insurance carriers and organizations offer ongoing support and resources to help you succeed in your role. This is one of the many reasons independent insurance agents may want to consider an upline.
Online platforms where agents can get potential customers quotes, information about different carriers and insurance plans, and even enroll beneficiaries play a huge role in the Medicare business today. They are a vital tool for any agent. Three of the most commonly used quote and enrollment programs are Connecture, Sunfire, and MyMedicarebot. They are often used to enroll customers without the need for a face to face meeting. In order to be in compliance with the regulations from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), all marketing calls between the agent and the potentials must be recorded.
Agents who work with Crowe and Associates have access to all three of these major enrollment tools for free and can watch a webinar on their use here.
Although the platforms are different in some ways, they have significant similarities:
Basic CRM function that saves client information, applications, scope of appointment documents, drug lists, doctor lists, and plan histories.
The ability to compare insurance plans and text or email them to prospective clients.
Agents can run prescription and practitioner lists against plans to see which would include the prospective client’s preferred healthcare management
Record all phone calls in compliance with CMS guidelines. Save calls for up to ten years if necessary.
The ability to see and compare all plans even if an agent is not in contract with the company.
Access to PURL links that allow clients to compare and ultimately enroll in their preferred plans. The PURL link is specific to the agent and has their contact information; it can be added to a website or sent as a link via email.
Enroll perspectives over the phone using these Medicare call recording functions.
Watch the video instructions on how to record calls using Connecture.
For Sunfire, click for parts one and two of the instructions on how to record calls.
For MyMedicarebot, follow this link to learn how to record calls.
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Effectively marketing Medicare Advantage plans requires a multifaceted approach that combines an understanding of your audience, educational content, digital marketing, community involvement, and strong partnerships. If you use the strategies outlined below, you can reach and connect with your target audience and provide the best individualized healthcare coverage through Medicare Advantage plans.
It is important to adapt to industry trends as well as regulatory changes. This will help you maintain a competitive edge in the Medicare market. If you are both dedicated and current with your approach, you can provide Medicare clients the best plan options as well as build a successful business.
Before diving into marketing strategies, it’s crucial to understand your target audience. The beneficiaries of Medicare Advantage plans are either Seniors aged 65 and over or other individuals with qualifying disabilities. It is important to remember, within this demographic, there are distinct segments with varying healthcare needs and preferences. It is extremely important to tailor your marketing efforts to resonate with each segment. This applies whether you are selling to either active seniors seeking fitness benefits or those with specific chronic conditions.
Keep in mind, Medicare can be complex and overwhelming for many clients. Agents should create educational content that simplifies the process of choosing a Medicare Advantage plan. There are several ways you can explain the MA plan benefits to potential clients. Make use of any tool you have including; blog posts, infographics, and videos (YouTube) or side by side comparisons of plans. It is important that clients understand; coverage options, enrollment periods, and any recent changes to their plans.
In the digital age, a strong online presence is vital for marketing success. It is a good idea to use various digital marketing channels to engage with your audience:
We cannot stress enough how important it is to create a good relation ship with your local carrier reps. These people offer a wealth of information as well as access to applications and marketing tools that may include marketing dollars.
If possible, form partnerships with local healthcare providers and medical facilities. This is a great way to increase brand awareness and referral opportunities.
Any opportunity to be at a public event will help to establish your brand and let people know you are happy to provide guidance. Places to help out include; soup kitchens, local health fairs hosting educational events at your local senior center or church group. The opportunities are endless once you look around. You may also want to host seminars or webinars to educate seniors about the importance of Medicare Advantage and how it can fit their specific needs.
Positive feedback from satisfied customers can make a big impact on potential clients. Encourage your clients to share their experiences with your business with their friends, family and co-workers or through online reviews. These referrals can bring in clients for years to come and truly expand you Medicare book. If possible, have clients go to your social media page and write a review. This helps build trust and credibility.
Keep in mind; The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) is a critical time for marketing MA plans. Be sure to reach out to your clients and check for plan updates to be sure they are happy with their coverage. It is imperative to maintain your book of business and keep clients happy by letting them know you will make sure their healthcare needs are met.
Many people confuse the term Medicare open enrollment period or OEP and the term Medicare Annual Enrollment or AEP. It important to understand the differences between these two enrollment periods.
This enrollment period takes place each year from January 1 to March 31. Anyone who is enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) can use this enrollment period to go over their current MA plan and make changes if they are necessary.
What can enrollees do during this time:
The new plan starts on the first day of the month following the submission of the member’s application.
Beneficiaries on Original Medicare cannot switch to a Medicare Advantage plan at this time. If that is what they want to do, they must wait for the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period.
During this enrollment period, it is wise to review your client’s Medicare coverage and make any changes they decide on. The AEP runs from October 15th through December 7th each year.
If you’re enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and want to add benefits such as; prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, OTC and more, you may wan to try a Medicare Advantage plan. On the other hand, if you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan and want the flexibility of Original Medicare, you can return to it.
The significance of these enrollment periods is that they allow beneficiaries an opportunity to reassess their healthcare needs as their circumstances change. This gives them a chance to potentially save money on premiums, deductibles, and copayments or purchase additional coverage.
Anyone who fails to take advantage of this window may be stuck in an ineffective or expensive plan for another year. This can result in less coverage than they need and higher medical costs.
Original Medicare covers many healthcare necessities, with both medical and hospital insurance being included automatically. However, one of the missing pieces of original Medicare is prescription drug coverage. In the past, Cigna did not pay commission on part d plans. Now, Cigna PDP commissionable 2024.
To remedy this, many carriers offer Medicare Part D, or prescription drug plans (also known as PDP). Cigna is one of these carriers. They have a large network of healthcare providers and their plans are available in most areas of the country. Even more exciting, for the 2024 Annual Enrollment Period (or AEP), Cigna has made their prescription drug plan commissionable in all 50 states. Cigna is expanding to make their PDPs commissionable for all their contracted brokers and distribution partners, which they hope will support their “No Wrong Door” portfolio selling strategy. A “No Wrong Door” approach means that, whichever way potentials and beneficiaries approach the carrier’s plans, brokers are able to support them through the system in a way that ends with them getting the plan they most benefit from. There is no wrong way to enter, so to speak.
For some time, brokers were giving Cigna feedback that they were ready to earn commission on Cigna’s products just like their competitors’ products. Cigna is ready to capitalize on their positive sales momentum. Three Cigna PDP drug plans are commissionable in the upcoming AEP. With this new ability, brokers can meet their customer’s individual needs and wants by presenting any combination of Cigna Medicare Advantage, Cigna prescription drug plans, Cigna Medicare Supplement, and other Cigna Supplemental Health and Life products. Maximum broker commissions for prescription drug plans have increased for the coming AEP from $92 per member per year to $100 per member per year, and are the same for all states, which is different than other commission rates that are different depending on location. The ability to earn commission on all of these plans will bring value to both the brokers and the beneficiaries.
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A Facebook business page can be a very useful tool for agents and brokers to give people easy and quick access to a snapshot of their business. They are easy to use, free to create, and simple to maintain. However, once an agent or broker has one, there are two vital steps to maximize its usefulness and reach as many potential clientele as possible. Maximize your Facebook business page.
While this may seem excessive for the uninitiated, posting often and consistently is one of the easiest ways to move search traffic to that page. An active page is a visible page. Agents can post things like information about educational and marketing events that are coming up, updates on the business, promotions that they know about and have access to, and other valuable content related to their business and the insurance field in general. Even articles such as “How does Medicare Advantage Work?” can generate web traffic through keywords and consistent posting.
Paid ads are a surefire way to reach a wider audience with a business page and drive even more web traffic to the business page. Here is a brief explanation of how to use paid ads on Facebook
On the business page, click the top right corner “create” button and select “create an ad”
The objectives to choose from will be “boost your posts,” “promote your page,” and “send people to your website.” The agent will have to choose the option they think is most beneficial at the time.
Select the target social media audience. Age, location, interests, and other demographics are very important to think about because they will determine who will see the ad. If the ad is to get into the right hands, it has to reach the right people. An obvious choice would be to choose people over the age of 65, and, in particular, people who are six to eight months away from turning 65. Most seniors start researching Medicare up to eight months before they are eligible.
Choose the budget and schedule for the ad campaign. Most ads can be affordable with a reasonable start and end date.
Create the ad by choosing a compelling video or picture, and create a title that uses meaningful keywords.
Review and submit the ad for approval. Facebook will review the ad before publishing it to make sure it meets their advertising requirements. Once it is approved, the ad will run, driving much needed web traffic to the agent’s chosen location.
Social media is a powerful tool. By utilizing these two steps, an agent or broker can make sure that their information is reaching as many potential clients as possible. Posting valuable content and using Facebook’s built-in paid ads feature will create a more visible business page.
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What is a Medicare trial right When a beneficiary enrolls in Original
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We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800 MEDICARE to get information on all options.Not affiliated with the U. S. government or federal Medicare program. This website is designed to provide general information on Insurance products, including Annuities. It is not, however, intended to provide specific legal or tax advice and cannot be used to avoid tax penalties or to promote, market, or recommend any tax plan or arrangement. Please note that [Agency Name], its affiliated companies, and their representatives and employees do not give legal or tax advice. Encourage your clients to consult their tax advisor or attorney.
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Online Enrollment- Enroll prospects online without the need for a face to face appointment. Access to all major carriers with the ability to compare plan benefits and prescription drug costs. Link to recorded webinar https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/recording/2899290519088332033
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