Litmus Test for working with a Medicare Agent

Couple meeting with a Medicare Agent

It is that time of year again. Medicare Annual Enrollment is right around the corner, starting on October 15^th. If you are looking to make changes to your existing plan or want to enroll in an entirely new plan, it can be tempting to just do it yourself – unless and until it isn’t.

Sometimes it is just easier to work with a licensed Medicare Agent or Broker. While agents do make commissions on enrollments, you should never be charged for their services.

Additionally, agents must follow rules, pass recertification every year on the new plan information, and be compliant with Medicare privacy and other restrictions.

A good agent will provide you with information that is accurate and clear for you to make the best decision for yourself and your circumstances. They should never hard sell you or put you in a plan that you aren’t sure about.  

Here is a checklist on what makes a “good” Medicare agent:

• They return your calls in a timely manner.

  
  

• They are knowledgeable about current Medicare and Medicaid administrative changes.

  
  

• Their focus is what’s best for you, not their commission.

  
  

• They take the time to explain potential health plan choices in a way that you can understand.

  
  

• They communicate with you respectfully about plans and your personal information.

  
  

• They verify that your doctors are in network and what your prescription co-pays are likely to be.

  
  

• They are knowledgeable about grants, federal, and state programs that can save you money.

  
  

• They are available to you all year (not just during Annual Enrollment) to answer questions and help with medical appeals and advocacy.

Are you considering working with a Medicare agent? If so, has this article been helpful? Is there anything else you would like to add or ask? Please share in the comments! And please share this article with anyone you know who is near or past 65. Medicare can be confusing, and it is nice to have helpful resources when you are trying to get enrolled or make changes to your plan.

If you or someone you know has questions about Medicare, Medicaid, retirement, or working with a Medicare agent, give me a call at (503) 310-4504. I’d love to hear from you. No charge ever for getting answers to your questions.

Mara