health insurance sales Archives

ACA Certification and Training

By Ed Crowe | General Articles | 0 comment | 30 June, 2024 | 0

Since the start of the introduction of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), there’s been a growing demand for professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide assistance to enrollees. ACA certification and training are one of the ways agents can stay up-to date on plan options and proper enrollment practices. This allows agents to help individuals make informed decisions and get access to healthcare.

Learn about our ACA sales contracting

Certifications agents need to offer ACA plans

Agents who want to offer ACA plans through the federal exchange site (healthcare.gov), must complete the FFM (Federally Facilitated Marketplace) certification. Although the ACA plans operate differently than Medicare does, the CMS also oversees ACA training. Agents complete this certification through CMS’ MLMS (Marketplace Learning Management System). One important thing to note; the FFM certification doesn’t cover insurance products sold through any of the state-based marketplaces.

FFM certification does not cover products sold in states that have their own state-based marketplace, The following states have state-based marketplaces that require agents to take their specific certifications:

CA – the state’s marketplace is Covered California

CO – the state’s marketplace is Connect for Health Colorado

CT – the state’s marketplace is Access Health CT

Please note: Access Health CT certification for 2024 for both Brokers and CACs is closing on July 31. Certification for Open Enrollment and for 2025 will start in September (Date TBA). Those who certify before 7/31 will need to certify again in September for 2025.

DC – the state’s marketplace is DC Health Link

ID – the state’s marketplace is Your Health Idaho

KY – the state’s marketplace is Kynect

ME – the state’s marketplace is CoverME

MD – the state’s marketplace is Maryland Health Connection

MA – the state’s marketplace is Health Connector

MN – the state’s marketplace is Mnsure

NV – the state’s marketplace is Nevada Health Link

NJ – the state’s marketplace is Get Covered NJ

NM – the state’s marketplace is beWellnm

NY – the state’s marketplace is New York State of Health

PA – the state’s marketplace is Pennie

RI – the state’s marketplace is HealthSource RI

VT – the state’s marketplace is Vermont Health Connect

VA – the state’s marketplace is Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace

WA – the state’s marketplace is Washington Healthplanfinder

When do agents need to complete certifications

Certifications for states on the Federal Exchange as well as many state-based marketplaces must be completed annually. However, although some state-based training, such as NY, is required every 2 years. When there are changes to the ACA, CMS provides updated training modules.

Find out why you should offer ACA plans through Crowe:

Watch a Youtube video on ACA contracting with Crowe and Associates

Click here to view a demo of our ACA portal for agents and agencies

FFM certification

Agents who need to complete FFM (Federally Facilitated Marketplace) can access CMS’s Enterprise Portal to complete their FFM certs. If you don’t already have an account, you can create one. Once you are in the portal, go to choose “Add Application” and click on the FFM/Request for MLMS Training Access and follow the instructions.

The states that require FFM training: AL, AK, AZ, AR, DE, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MI, MS, MO, MT, NE, NH, NM, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WV, WI and WY.

New ACA agents vs. returning agents

Agents who are new to the ACA market must take the entire training course while returning agents can take a shortened version of the course.

New agents: click here for the CMS Marketplace training guide for 2024

Returning Agents: click here for CMS’ Marketplace training guide for 2024

The entire FFM certification consists of 10 training modules and four test; this takes a few hours to finish. A score of 70% or higher is required to pass the tests although agents who do not pass them can retake them. The refresher training only takes about an hour and a half to finish. There is no cost to the agent to take either course.

To check that CMS has updated your FFM cert status, use your NPN on the Agent and Broker FFM Registration Completion List (RCL), just enter your NPN to check. Please note, it may take a few days for CMS to update the system.

FFM certification assistance

CMS provides technical assistance for agent who experience issues while completing the FFM course. Call the Marketplace service desk at 1-855-267-1515 for portal password resets and issues as well as registration and training questions. Agents can also contact the help desk via email at: FFMProducer-AssisterHelpDesk@cms.hhs.gov

Offering ACA plans is a great way to grow your business and assist more members of your community.

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ACA Agent Sales Contracting

By Ed Crowe | General Articles | 0 comment | 12 June, 2024 | 0

Crowe and Associates offers ACA agent sales contracting with a number of carriers. In addition, we have the ability to pay overrides to accommodate agencies with sub agents. All commissions are paid at full street level or above and the agent/agency owns the book of business. Our agent and agency partners can access a number of benefits including an agent specific admin portal, contracting support, enrollment portals and commission overrides.

Watch a 5 minute video review all our ACA program benefits for agents and agencies

ACA carriers available to contract

Agents have access to 20+ ACA carriers in all 50 states. Carriers include Anthem, Oscar, Ambetter, Aetna, Cigna, Molina, Medico, UHC, multiple BCBS organizations and a number of other carriers. We are adding additional carriers on an ongoing basis and are always open to inquiring with suggested carriers our partners need.

ACA Agent sales contracting

CLICK HERE FOR CONTRACTING

ACA Agent commissions

All agents are contracted to receive full street commission offered by each company. We do not reduce or keep any portion of an agents compensation. Agents will also receive 100% of any agent level bonus payments that may be available. (Not all carriers pay a bonus and some only do in certain states)

Agents will receive compensation directly from the carrier. Some carriers do not pay commissions directly to agents. When that is the case, we will pay the commissions and any applicable bonus payments to the agent.

Agents own the book of business and will continue to receive all commissions even if they go to another upline or move direct to a carrier

Carrier bonuses and bonuses specific to our agents

Agents will receive 100% of any carrier specific bonus programs. We also have bonus programs specific to agents with our agency. For example, we have an exclusive Anthem bonus that is available exlusively to our agents for 2024

Tier 1- 20 – 49 new members – $100 per member

Tier 2- 50+ new members – $150 per member

Agent and agency portal

All agents and agencies will have access to a personalized admin portal. The portal will provide acces to a number of features including: Applications, current book of business, commissions, contracting status, street commission amounts by carrier and state and training information and videos.

Agencies will have access to an admin version of the portal which will show production, contracting and commissions for all sub agents and agencies

Override payments for agents and agencies

We have the ability to pay agencies overrides above the street level commission. Overrides are paid on the same schedule as commission on a PMPM basis. Agencies looking for current override amounts should contact us to discuss what is available

Are you a Medicare agent? Learn about our programs and benefits for Medicare agents

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Medicare marketing ideas

By Ed Crowe | General Articles | 0 comment | 3 August, 2023 | 0

Medicare marketing ideas

Although Medicare agents play a crucial role in helping to guide Medicare beneficiaries in their search for quality healthcare, it can be a challenge to get in front of the people who need you. Because the Medicare market is so competitive, it’s essential for agents to advertise their services effectively and reach their target audience. In the next few paragraphs, we will discuss some Medicare marketing ideas that can hopefully put you on the path to success.

It is important to remember; honesty, transparency, and a commitment to help others are the keys to success in this industry. If you create a strong online presence, keep your audience engaged and build trust within the community, you will become a reliable resource for Medicare beneficiaries. Once you are established, you will be able to make a positive impact on the community.

Understand your audience:

When you know your target audience, you will have the foundation for a successful advertising campaign. Because Medicare beneficiaries are usually seniors or individuals with specific healthcare needs, you must tailor your message to address their concerns. Be sure you highlight the benefits your clients are asking about such as; dental, hearing, OTC, giveback amounts and plan costs.

Be sure your message is compliant:

Because Medicare is a highly regulated industry, it’s crucial for agents to adhere to all marketing guidelines set forth by the CMS. Before you do any advertising, make sure your materials are accurate, clear, and not misleading. It is imperative that you avoid making false claims or using deceptive tactics. These things can not only put your reputation at risk but they could also jeopardize your ability to sell Medicare products.

View the new Medicare Marketing rules for 2024

Create an Engaging Online Presence:

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is vital. Build a professional website that showcases your expertise and services. It is also nice to include customer testimonials. Incorporate search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve your website’s visibility on search engines, making it easier for potential clients to find you.

Social Media:

Social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram or YouTube, to name a few, offer an opportunity for Medicare agents to engage with their audience and build relationships. Share informative content, answer questions, and provide valuable insights to position yourself as a trusted resource. Be cautious not to engage in direct selling on social media, as it may violate CMS guidelines.

Email Marketing:

Email marketing is a great tool to stay connected with both prospects and existing clients. You can use email to share updates on Medicare plan changes, educational content, and upcoming events. You should always get consent from recipients before sending marketing emails to ensure compliance with anti-spam laws. It is important to offer an opt-out button on all marketing emails.

Networking and Community Involvement:

Make sure you establish yourself as an active member of your local community. Whenever possible, participate in healthcare-related events, workshops, and senior expos. Anytime you have an opportunity to educate the community and let them know you are accessible is helpful. Community outreach programs are another way to show your willingness to help people with their Medicare coverage.

Think about traditional Advertising:

Although these days, digital marketing is essential, don’t underestimate the value of traditional advertising. You may need to try several approaches before you find what works best for you. Direct mail, newspaper ads, and radio spots can still be an effective way to reach older audiences who might not be as active online.

Word of mouth works well:

Happy clients can be your best advocates. If you provide great customer service, your clients will tell their friends and family members. Many people ask each other for recommendations when they are nearing time to enroll in Medicare. Positive reviews from real people can greatly influence potential clients’ decisions. Some agents use testimonials from satisfied customers on their website and marketing materials.

Find out why you should work with us

Click here for Medicare commissions 2024

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Become a Medicare Agent

By Ed Crowe | General Articles | 0 comment | 23 May, 2023 | 0

How To Become A Medicare Agent

Although there are many facets to becoming a licensed Medicare agent, the job description at a glance is rather simple. You are marketing Medicare insurance to two groups of people: those who are 65 years or older and eligible for Medicare benefits, and those who are under 65 years old, disabled, and also eligible for Medicare benefits.

Here are seven simple steps:

Get your health insurance license

It goes without saying that agents should be well-versed, experts even, in all things Medicare. Some of the most common topics to study are deductibles, compliance, health care laws in your area, claims, and the general ins and outs of how Original Medicare works, as well as Medicare Advantage. There are courses that offer Medicare training, which must be state-specific. For most states, the prospective agent must take a course to study for the health insurance license. The course is led by an instructor, lasts about a week, and has an exam that must be passed at the end of the course. The other option is self-studying to take the same exam.

Some courses also offer life insurance certifications simultaneously – many agents choose to take advantage of this opportunity as the marketing group for Medicare and life insurance is often very similar.

Complete the AHIP Medicare training

Once licensed, the next requirement is passing (with a 90% minimum) the annual Medicare training and certification through America’s Health Insurance Program (AHIP). The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is the agency that regulates Medicare plans, the agents who sell them, and the insurance carriers and brokers. AHIP certification typically starts in June and certifies those who pass for selling the following year. The exam is currently a cost of $175. Our agents take AHIP at the discounted rate of $125. Click here for details.

Errors and Omissions Insurance

Even with the best of intentions, every agent will make a mistake eventually. This coverage, known as Errors and Omissions Insurance (E&O), will help in the event that a client decides to take legal action against you. If they feel that you gave misleading or incorrect information and decide to litigate, these policies can cover between one and three million dollars in coverage. Their cost however, is only $300 to $500 a year. Most carriers will not work with agents who do not have Errors and Omissions Insurance. Purchase E&O here.

Contract with a Medicare Field Marketing Organization (FMO)

A Field Marketing Organization is a company that distributes health insurance plans to agents and agencies on behalf of the insurance carriers. Once contracted with an FMO, that organization will be able to help you get contracted to sell with multiple insurance companies, which increases both your clientele options and potential income. Some FMOs provide E&O insurance, as well as other benefits.

Get contracted with multiple Medicare companies

Each insurance carrier requires its own individual contract to sell their products. Most carriers require the following criteria be met before contracting with an agent:

A copy of the agent’s health insurance license
Proof of an E&O policy
Legal questionnaire written by the carrier
A background check
Some carriers require their own specific annual certifications that pertain to their plans.

Complete annual certifications

Depending on the state, you may be required to complete additional continuing education training and certifications annually. These are essential to keeping your license active in your area. Some of the most common ones are hours of Ethics and Anti-Money Laundering Training and hours in your area of concentration as an agent, whatever that may be.

Maintain continuing education when required

Your FMO will provide additional information as to what is required to maintain your contract with them. Most states have individual continuing education requirements.

Through these relatively simple steps and some effort on your part, a career in Medicare sales as a licensed Medicare Insurance Agent is well within your reach.

Licensed agents

We offer $500 to every agent for Medicare leads. Learn more.

Click here to start contracting.

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What Do Healthcare Customers Want

By Ed Crowe | General Articles | 0 comment | 7 May, 2023 | 0

What Do Healthcare Customers Want?

Healthcare is an unusual industry because the patient, or beneficiary, is also the customer. What Do Healthcare Customers Want? Customers, by and large, have an ever-evolving list of things they look for in choosing which products they want to purchase. In order to help best determine which supplemental insurance plans are best for your clients, you need to know what is important to them. Here are the top five things that healthcare consumers are looking for now:

Convenience

Life is busy, and it’s only getting busier. People rely on convenience. Automated tasks and obligations are necessary. Healthcare is no exception. Additionally, some are available online. If a task is not convenient, it is often put off. And when healthcare decisions or services are put off, there are often disastrous consequences. Luckily, increasing technology is making healthcare more convenient to access even as our lives get busier. Some of the ways healthcare companies are making their services more accessible are the following:

Online scheduling
Telehealth appointments and remote appointments are less time consuming.
Automated prescription refills
X ray and other scan access from a cloud rather than in person
Online pharmacies that can deliver medications to the patient’s home address

What Do Healthcare Customers Want? – Transparency

Health insurance is hard to navigate for most. No one likes to feel like the wool is being pulled over their eyes. Today’s consumers want transparency from their healthcare. There is increasing demand for more clarity in billing. Many beneficiaries do not know what they will be charged up front in a doctor’s office or facility. It is also not only about costs – beneficiaries want their medical advice to be transparent, too. This can include the pros and cons of a particular procedure, prescription alternatives, and second opinions. Transparency on all levels is about building trust.

Good Bedside Manner

Overly authoritative, dismissive, or just plain rude doctors and facilities can no longer sneak under the radar in the age of the internet. Negative reviews can have real adverse effects on a business or practice. Patients have special insights into their own bodies. As a result, their own concerns and symptoms need to be listened to carefully and seriously and considered in the diagnosis and treatment process.

Access To Information

Beneficiaries want to know the answers to their questions and concerns – point blank. They expect information about their healthcare and supplemental plans to be readily available. Some ways insurance companies are beginning to provide online portals that allow beneficiaries access to their information from anywhere at any time. Consumers also want more accessible information regarding coverage. They need to understand any potential coverage gap in their supplemental plans. The Medicare world is over flooded. Provide access to solid information. Teach clients to discern accurate information from marketing schemes.

What Do Healthcare Customers Want? – Options For Care

Beneficiaries want to be included in their insurance company’s deliberation processes. Customer feedback is imperative. They prefer to make collaborative decisions about their care, not simply be told what is covered and what is not. Healthcare providers and companies who take these desires seriously are more likely to have happier, more loyal consumers for a longer period of time.