Agent Survival Guide Podcast
Podcast Exclusive
Episodes
Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
Get ready to put procrastination in its place! Sarah talks about eating frogs and slaying dragons, helping motivate you to organize your to-do list and Get. Stuff. Done.
How do you stay motivated? Are you an eat-the-frog type, or does another method work for you? Let us know! Send a message to ASGPodcast@RitterIM.com or call us at 1-717-562-7211.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim Twitter, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ and Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Want more motivation? Try these episodes:
Creating Margin & Taking Back Control of Your Time: https://pod.fo/e/2870fb
Staying Motivated Amidst Change & Disruption: https://pod.fo/e/28aaec
The Power of Listening & Laughter: https://pod.fo/e/2870fa
You're Not Alone This AEP! https://pod.fo/e/27d8f4
References:
“Eat the Frog.” Todoist.Com, Todoist, todoist.com/productivity-methods/eat-the-frog. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
Laoyan, Sarah. “Why You Should Eat the Frog First.” Asana, Asana, 24 Feb. 2024, asana.com/resources/eat-the-frog.
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Friday Nov 22, 2024
Friday Nov 22, 2024
The Friday Five for November 22, 2024:
Bluesky Lists & Starter Packs
Missing Apple Notes Solution
KFF Updated FAQs on Medicare Drug Price Negotiation
New Section 1115 Demonstrations for Medicaid & CHIP
KFF 2025 Medicare Advantage Spotlight
Bluesky Lists & Starter Packs:
“Bluesky Start Packs - Bluesky Directory.” Blueskydirectory.Com, Bluesky Directory, blueskydirectory.com/starter-packs/all. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.
Cooper, Gael. “Bluesky Explained: Why This Social Media Network Has 20 Million Users and Is Growing.” CNET.Com, CNET, 19 Nov. 2024, https://www.cnet.com/tech/bluesky-explained-why-this-social-media-network-is-now-growing-by-1-million-users-daily/.
Isaac, Mike. “How Bluesky, Alternative to X and Facebook, Is Handling Explosive Growth.” Nytimes.Com, The New York Times, 17 Nov. 2024, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/17/technology/bluesky-growing-pains.html.
Cunningham, Joel. “This Is the Best Way to Find People to Follow on Bluesky.” Lifehacker.Com, Lifehacker, 19 Nov. 2024, lifehacker.com/tech/best-way-to-find-people-to-follow-on-bluesky.
Cappelli, Amanda. “What Is Bluesky, the Online Platform Welcoming Users Leaving Elon Musk’s X?” CBS News, CBS Interactive, 17 Nov. 2024, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/what-is-bluesky-why-are-people-leaving-x-platform/.
Missing Apple Notes Solution:
Christoffel, Ryan. “Apple Confirms Fix for Disappearing Notes after iCloud Terms Issue.” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 18 Nov. 2024, 9to5mac.com/2024/11/18/apple-confirms-fix-for-disappearing-notes-after-icloud-terms-issue/.
Phelan, David. “Apple Confirms iPhone Missing Notes Bug And Shows How To Fix It.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 18 Nov. 2024, www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2024/11/17/apple-confirms-iphone-missing-notes-bug-and-shows-how-to-fix-it-iphone-16-pro-max-icloud-data/.
Smith, Chris. “This Is Apple’s Official Fix for the Bug That Makes Notes Disappear in iOS 18.” BGR.Com, BGR, 19 Nov. 2024, bgr.com/tech/apple-official-fix-for-the-ios-18-disappearing-notes-bug/.
KFF Updated FAQs on Medicare Drug Price Negotiation:
Cubanski, Juliette. “FAQs about the Inflation Reduction Act’s Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program.” KFF.Org, KFF, 19 Nov. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/faqs-about-the-inflation-reduction-acts-medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program/.
New Section 1115 Demonstrations for Medicaid & CHIP:
“About Section 1115 Demonstrations.” Medicaid.Gov, Medicaid, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/about-section-1115-demonstrations/index.html. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.
“Biden-Harris Administration Announces Approvals in Five States That Will Keep Eligible Children and Adults Enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-announces-approvals-five-states-will-keep-eligible-children-and-adults .
“Colorado Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/co-continuum-dmnstrtn-aprvl-11142024.pdf.
“Hawaii Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/hi-quest-integr-dmnstrtn-aprvl-11142024.pdf.
“Minnesota Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/mn-pmap-dmnstrtn-aprvl-11142024.pdf.
“New York Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/ny-medicaid-rdsgn-team-dmnstrtn-appvl-11142024.pdf.
“Pennsylvania Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/pa-former-foster-care-youth-diff-state-sud-dmnstrtn-appvl-11142024.pdf.
KFF 2025 Medicare Advantage Spotlight:
Freed, Meredith, Jeannie Fuglesten Biniek, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2025 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Offerings.” KFF.Org, KFF, 15 Nov. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/medicare-advantage-2025-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-offerings/.
Freed, Meredith, Jeannie Fuglesten Biniek, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2025 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Premiums and Benefits.” KFF.Org, KFF, 15 Nov. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/medicare-advantage-2025-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-premiums-and-benefits/.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
5 Ways to Generate ACA Leads: https://pod.fo/e/28139a
7 Reasons Clients Switch Medicare Plans During AEP: https://pod.fo/e/284479
Halfway Through AEP 2025: https://pod.fo/e/2830c1
Ritter Staff’s Top 5 Apps: https://pod.fo/e/28515e
VA Benefits, Tricare for Life, and Medicare for Veteran Clients: https://pod.fo/e/281399
You're Not Alone This AEP!: https://pod.fo/e/27d8f4
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Wednesday Nov 20, 2024
Wednesday Nov 20, 2024
We asked our HQ staff what their top apps are, listen to this episode to learn their answers! Did your favorite app make the list?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Google Calendar: https://workspace.google.com/intl/en-US/products/calendar/EveryDollar: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ramseyplus/everydollar?snid=free-tools.budgeting.everydollar-budget-appGiant Food Stores App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/giant-food-stores/id491014869Giant Food Stores Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.giantfoods.mobile.droid&hl=enMeta Business Suite: https://www.facebook.com/business/tools/meta-business-suite Canva: https://www.canva.com/Adobe Express: https://www.adobe.com/express/
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
4 Ways PlanEnroll Will Make This Your Best AEP Yet: https://pod.fo/e/28aafc
Best Free Writing & Grammar Apps: https://pod.fo/e/28ab3d
Best Video Editing Apps for Social Media: https://pod.fo/e/28aaf5
How to Create a Google Business Profile: https://pod.fo/e/28ab05
Insurance Agents as TPMOs: What CMS Compliance Regulations Mean for You: https://pod.fo/e/28aaf1
Modern Medicare Marketing for Today’s Agents FREE eBook Download: https://ritterim.com/modern-marketing-guide/
Social Media Marketing for Insurance Agents FREE eBook Download: https://ritterim.com/social-media-ebook/
References:
“Everydollar: Make a Budget and Track Expenses.” Ramsey Solutions, www.ramseysolutions.com/ramseyplus/everydollar?snid=free-tools.budgeting.everydollar-budget-app.
Dixon, Stacy Jo. “Facebook Monthly Active Users Worldwide 2023.” Statista.Com, Statista, 21 May 2024, www.statista.com/statistics/264810/number-of-monthly-active-facebook-users-worldwide/.
“Free Design Tool: Presentations, Video, Social Media | CANVA.” Canva, www.canva.com/. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
“Free Design, Photo, and Video Tool - Design Made Easy | Adobe Express.” Adobe, www.adobe.com/express/. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
“Giant - Apps on Google Play.” Google Play, Google, https://www.play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.giantfoods.mobile.droid&hl=en. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
“Giant Choice Rewards.” Giant, https://www.giantfoodstores.com/rewards/. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024. LLC, Giant Food Stores.
“Giant Food Stores.” App Store, 4 Jan. 2012, https://www.apps.apple.com/us/app/giant-food-stores/id491014869.
“Log into Facebook.” Facebook, www.facebook.com/. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
“The 20 Most Popular Social Media Platforms in 2024.” Backlinko, 26 July 2024, www.backlinko.com/social-media-platforms.
“Meta Business Suite.” Facebook, www.facebook.com/business/tools/meta-business-suite. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
Dixon, Stacy Jo. “Meta Global Community Monthly Active Users 2023.” Statista.Com, Statista, 26 Apr. 2024, www.statista.com/statistics/947869/facebook-product-mau/.
“Pricing: Compare Free & Premium Plans | Adobe Express.” Adobe, www.adobe.com/express/pricing. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
“Shareable Online Calendar and Scheduling.” Google Calendar, Google, www.workspace.google.com/intl/en-US/products/calendar/. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Friday Nov 15, 2024
Friday Nov 15, 2024
The Friday Five for November 15, 2024:
FOMC November 2024 Meeting
Bluesky, Threads, X App Downloads vs. Site Traffic
2025 Medicare Part A/B Premiums & Deductibles
NordPass Top Passwords of 2024 List
Halfway Through AEP 2025
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
FOMC November 2024 Meeting:
“Consumer Price Index - October 2024.” Bls.Gov, Bureau of Labor & Statistics, 13 Nov. 2024, www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf.
“Consumer Price Index Summary - October 2024.” Bls.Gov, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 10 Oct. 2024, www.bls.gov/news.release/cpi.nr0.htm.
“Meeting Calendars and Information.” Federalreserve.Gov, The Federal Reserve, www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/fomccalendars.htm. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.
“Personal Income and Outlays, September 2024.” Bea.Gov, Bureau of Economic Analysis, 31 Oct. 2024, www.bea.gov/news/2024/personal-income-and-outlays-september-2024.
“Transcript of Chair Powell’s Press Conference November 7, 2024.” Federalreserve.Gov, The Federal Reserve, www.federalreserve.gov/mediacenter/files/FOMCpresconf20241107.pdf. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.
Bluesky, Threads, X App Downloads vs. Site Traffic:
“Adam Mosseri (@mosseri) on Threads.” Threads, Meta, 3 Nov. 2024, www.threads.net/@mosseri/post/DB6zNlQSsJN?xmt=AQGzC2OVsSCAHSwTsMzAMlVJzFvTppOz8Np1TG7sEIM3bA.
“Bluesky Announces Series A to Grow Network of 13M+ Users.” Bsky.Social, Bluesky, 24 Oct. 2024, bsky.social/about/blog/10-24-2024-series-a.
“Social Media Fact Sheet.” Pewresearch.Org, Pew Research Center, 13 Nov. 2024, www.pewresearch.org/internet/fact-sheet/social-media/.
“Top Websites in United States - October 2024 Most Visited & Popular Rankings.” Semrush.Com, Semrush, www.semrush.com/website/top/united-states/all/. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
Kirshner, Alex. “Sick of X and Elon Musk? This App Might Be for You.” Slate.Com, Slate, 12 Nov. 2024, slate.com/technology/2024/11/bluesky-app-twitter-exodus-x-elon-musk.html.
Holtermann, Callie. “With Surge in New Users, Bluesky Emerges as X Alternative.” Nytimes.Com, The New York Times, 14 Nov. 2024, www.nytimes.com/2024/11/12/style/bluesky-users-election.html.
“Top Apps & Games for Iphone on the IOS App Store in the United States.” Appfigures.Com, Appfigures, appfigures.com/top-apps/ios-app-store/united-states/iphone/top-overall. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
“Top Apps for Android on Google Play in the United States.” Appfigures.Com, Appfigures, appfigures.com/top-apps/google-play/united-states/top-apps. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
Tenbarge, Kat, and Kevin Collier. “X Sees Largest User Exodus since Musk Takeover.” NBCNews.Com, NBC Universal News Group, 13 Nov. 2024, www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/x-sees-largest-user-exodus-musk-takeover-rcna179793.
2025 Medicare Part A/B Premiums & Deductibles:
“2025 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 8 Nov. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2025-medicare-parts-b-premiums-and-deductibles.
2025 Medicare Part A and Part B Premiums and Deductibles: Episode | Post
NordPass Top Passwords of 2024 List:
Novak, Matt. “Americans Are Using the Dumbest Possible Passwords (2024 Edition).” Gizmodo.Com, Gizmodo, 14 Nov. 2024, gizmodo.com/americans-are-using-the-dumbest-possible-passwords-2024-edition-2000524147.
Kan, Michael. “Here Are 2024’s Most Used (and Worst) Passwords: Is Yours on the List?” Pcmag.Com, PCMAG, 14 Nov. 2024, https://www.pcmag.com/news/most-common-worst-passwords-2024-nordpass-is-yours-on-the-list .
Hill, Allan Rose. “Here Is the Latest List of Passwords You Should Never Use.” Boingboing.Net, Boing Boing, 13 Nov. 2024, boingboing.net/2024/11/13/here-is-the-latest-list-of-passwords-you-should-never-use.html.
Wong, Abel. “The Most Used Passwords of 2024 Are out - and It’s 123456 Again.” Technave.Com, TechNave, 14 Nov. 2024, technave.com/gadget/The-most-used-passwords-of-2024-are-out-and-it-s-123456-again-40655.html.
Roth, Emma. “These Are the Passwords You Definitely Shouldn’t Be Using.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 13 Nov. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/11/13/24295543/most-common-passwords-list-2024.
“Top 200 Most Common Passwords.” NordPass.Com, NordPass, nordpass.com/most-common-passwords-list/. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
Resources:
5 Ways to Generate ACA Leads: https://pod.fo/e/28139a
2025 Medicare Part A and B Premiums and Deductibles: https://pod.fo/e/282829
Apps to Stay Productive This AEP! https://pod.fo/e/27ed22
Halfway Through AEP: Reflect & Renew Your Medicare Sales Strategies: https://pod.fo/e/282828
How Ask Integrity Can Streamline Your Medicare Sales Appointments: https://pod.fo/e/27a354
How to Check Medicare Extra Help Eligibility for Your Client: https://pod.fo/e/282827
KFF 2025 ACA Open Enrollment Report & Tools: https://pod.fo/e/27f7a6
Staying Motivated Amidst Change & Disruption: https://pod.fo/e/28aaec
You're Not Alone This AEP! https://pod.fo/e/27d8f4
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Friday Nov 08, 2024
Friday Nov 08, 2024
The Friday Five for November 8, 2024:
Spotify Custom Cover Art for Playlists
Instagram AI “Adult Classifier”
Starbucks & Dunkin’ Holiday Drink Menus
Streaming Picks for November 2024
KFF 2025 ACA Open Enrollment Report & Tools
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Spotify Custom Cover Art for Playlists:
Aurelie.Corinthios@groupsjr.com. “Take Your Spotify Playlists to the Next Level With Custom Cover Art.” Newsroom.Spotify.Com, Spotify, 22 Oct. 2024, newsroom.spotify.com/2024-10-22/create-cover-art-playlists-custom-beta/.
Spotify Playlists:
Interviews on the Agent Survival Guide Podcast
News for Insurance Agents
Social Media Marketing for Insurance Agents
Instagram AI “Adult Classifier:”
Barlow, Graham. “Instagram to Use AI to Catch Teens Lying about Their Age and Automatically Move Them to Restricted Accounts.” TechRadar.Com, TechRadar, 6 Nov. 2024, www.techradar.com/computing/artificial-intelligence/instagram-to-use-ai-to-catch-teens-lying-about-their-age-and-automatically-move-them-to-restricted-accounts.
Basu, Suswati. “Instagram Uses AI to Detect Underage Users and Move Them to Teen Accounts.” Edited by Sam Shedden, Readwrite.Com, readwrite, 6 Nov. 2024, https://readwrite.com/instagram-ai-detect-underage-users/.
Borak, Masha. “Meta Announces New Age-Checking Measures for Young Instagram Users.” Biometricupdate.Com, Biometric Update | Biometrics News, Companies and Explainers, 5 Nov. 2024, www.biometricupdate.com/202411/meta-announces-new-age-checking-measures-for-young-instagram-users.
Bonifacic, Igor. “Meta Details ‘Adult Classifier’ Tool for Catching Teens Who Lie about Their Age on Instagram.” Engadget.Com, Engadget, 4 Nov. 2024, www.engadget.com/social-media/meta-details-adult-classifier-tool-for-catching-teens-who-lie-about-their-age-on-instagram-164439051.html.
Starbucks & Dunkin’ Holiday Menus:
“Starbucks Holiday Menu Returns with Festive New Refreshers & Food, Beginning Nov.7.” About.Starbucks.Com, Starbucks, 6 Nov. 2024, about.starbucks.com/stories/2024/starbucks-holiday-menu-returns-with-festive-new-refreshers-and-food-beginning-nov-7.
“‘Tis the Season at Dunkin’®: Introducing New Holiday Cookie Signature Latte, Almond Croissant, and the Return of Free Donut Wednesdays.” News.Dunkindonuts.Com, Dunkin’, 29 Oct. 2024, news.dunkindonuts.com/news/dunkin-holiday-menu-announcement.
Streaming Picks for November 2024:
Ridgely, Charlie. “Everything Coming to Netflix, Disney+ & Other Major Streaming Services in November 2024.” ComicBook.Com, ComicBook, 28 Oct. 2024, comicbook.com/movies/news/new-streaming-november-2024-movies-tv-shows-netflix-disney-max-prime-video/.
KFF 2025 ACA Open Enrollment Report & Tools:
“Health Insurance Marketplace Calculator.” KFF.Org, KFF, 30 Oct. 2024, www.kff.org/interactive/subsidy-calculator/.
Ortaliza, Jared, et al. “Ten Things to Watch for 2025 ACA Open Enrollment.” KFF.Org, KFF, 30 Oct. 2024, www.kff.org/policy-watch/ten-things-to-watch-for-2025-aca-open-enrollment/.
“Build a Custom State Report.” KFF.Org, KFF, www.kff.org/statedata/custom/. Accessed 6 Nov. 2024.
“Temporary Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for Consumers Losing Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Coverage Due to Unwinding of the Medicaid Continuous Enrollment Condition Operations for Plan Year 2024.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 28 Mar. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/resources-for-states/downloads/extn-sep-cnsmrs-lsg-chip-cvrg-adndm-faq.pdf.
Resources:
Apple Intelligence iOS 18.1 Features: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20241101
Apps to Stay Productive This AEP! https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA20241106
Best eBook & Audiobook Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA71
Budget-Friendly Streaming Services: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA70
You're Not Alone This AEP! https://link.chtbl.com/ASGM20241104
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
Wednesday Nov 06, 2024
We’re in the middle of the busy season! Check out these task management apps to help keep you on track.
Zoho Projects: https://www.zoho.com/projects/
Joplin: https://joplinapp.org/
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
Affinity Partnerships for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG617
Apps for Tracking Business Expenses: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA67
Best Video Editing Apps for Social Media: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA69
Organization Tips and Tricks for the Medicare Annual Enrolment Period: https://ritterim.com/blog/organization-tips-and-tricks-for-the-medicare-annual-enrollment-period/
What Agents Forget to Do When Preparing for Appointments: https://ritterim.com/blog/what-agents-forget-to-do-when-preparing-for-appointments/
References:
Joplin, www.joplinapp.org/. Accessed 14 Oct. 2024.
“Joplin Cloud Plans.” Joplin, www.joplinapp.org/plans/. Accessed 14 Oct. 2024.
“Team Communication Software: Business & Team Chat App - Zoho Cliq.” Zoho, www.zoho.com/cliq/. Accessed 14 Oct. 2024.
“Zoho Projects Pricing Plans.” Zoho, www.zoho.com/projects/zohoprojects-pricing.html. Accessed 14 Oct. 2024.
“Zoho Projects: Online Project Management Platform.” Zoho, www.zoho.com/projects/. Accessed 14 Oct. 2024.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X (fka) Twitter, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Monday Nov 04, 2024
Monday Nov 04, 2024
You’re not alone this AEP! The Ritter family is dedicated to help you have the best AEP yet. Discover tips to avoid burnout by working smarter, not harder.
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://app.ritterim.com/public/registration/
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
3 Insurance Business Tools You Absolutely Can’t Live Without: https://ritterim.com/the-ultimate-agent-resource-list/
Affinity Partnerships for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG617
Apps for Tracking Business Expenses: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA67
Cultivating Growth in Your Insurance Agency and Life ft. Jen Flere: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGM20230410
Discover More About MedicareCENTER & Ask Integrity: https://ritterim.com/integrity-tools/
How Ritter Supports Agents: https://ritterim.com/support/
Habit & Mood Tracker Apps: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA048
Overcome Stress with Niksen: The Art of Doing Nothing: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGM20240520
References:
“4 Steps to Beating Burnout.” Harvard Business Review, www.hbr.org/2016/11/beating-burnout . Accessed 28 Oct. 2024.
“5 Consequences of Overworking Employees for Your Business.” ActivTrak, 5 May 2024, www.activtrak.com/blog/consequences-of-overworking-employees/.
Edú-Valsania, Sergio, et al. “Burnout: A Review of Theory and Measurement.” MDPI, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 4 Feb. 2022, www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/3/1780.
Harper, Caitlin. “How to Build a Support System for Your Mental Health.” MyWellbeing, 22 June 2023, www.mywellbeing.com/therapy-101/how-to-build-a-support-system.
Fraga, Juli. “How to Identify and Prevent Burnout.” Healthline, Healthline Media, www.healthline.com/health/tips-for-identifying-and-preventing-burnout. Accessed 28 Oct. 2024.
“Is Work Overload Hurting Your Organization’s Performance?” Calm, 29 July 2024, www.business.calm.com/resources/blog/is-work-overload-hurting-your-organizations-performance/.
“Preventing Burnout: 7 Strategies and When to Seek Help.” Medical News Today, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/preventing-burnout. Accessed 28 Oct. 2024.
“The Health Benefits of Good Friends.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 15 Oct. 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/friendships/art-20044860.
“The Research Is Clear: Long Hours Backfire for People and for Companies.” Harvard Business Review, 28 Dec. 2015, www.hbr.org/2015/08/the-research-is-clear-long-hours-backfire-for-people-and-for-companies.
Follow Us on Social!
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Saturday Nov 02, 2024
Saturday Nov 02, 2024
Retirement doesn't always mean the end of work. Your Medicare client may want or need to go back to work. What then? We talked to Danny Ford about the steps insurance agents should take when their client is considering a return to the workforce.
Read the text version
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
10 Tips to Submitting an Error-Free Medicare Enrollment Application: https://ritterim.com/blog/10-tips-to-submitting-an-error-free-medicare-enrollment-application/
A Review of Integrity's Top Medicare Quoting Tools: https://ritterim.com/blog/a-review-of-the-integrity-offered-medicare-quoting-software/
KFF 2025 Medicare Part D Snapshot Report: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20241018
The 2025 COLA Increase & How It Affects Your Clients: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGN20241015
The Complete Guide on How to Sell Medicare Advantage Plans: https://ritterim.com/medicare-advantage-ebook/
The Complete Guide to Client Loyalty and Retention: https://ritterim.com/client-retention-guide/
The Definitive Guide to Getting Leads and Prospecting for Medicare Sales: https://ritterim.com/lead-generation-guide/
The Value of Plan N for Medicare Shoppers ft. Ted Sims: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGTedSims2024
What Agents Forget to Do When Preparing for Appointments: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG6245
What CMS Requires Medicare Agents to Discuss Prior to Enrollments: https://ritterim.com/blog/what-cms-requires-medicare-agents-to-discuss-prior-to-enrollments/
What to Do if Your Medicare Part D Plans Become Non-Commissionable: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGN20241005
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Friday Nov 01, 2024
Friday Nov 01, 2024
The Friday Five for November 1, 2024:
CMS Updates Enrollment Process for EDE & DE Platforms
WPS Data Breach Leads to Issue of New Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers
Student Loan Forgiveness Update
Apple AirPods Pro Hearing Tools Launch
Apple Intelligence iOS 18.1 Features
CMS Updates Enrollment Process for EDE & DE Platforms:
“CMS Roundup (October. 18, 2024).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 18 Oct. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/cms-round-up/cms-roundup-october-18-2024.
“Direct Enrollment and Enhanced Direct Enrollment.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/marketplace/agents-brokers/direct-enrollment-partners. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
“HealthCare.Gov Contact Information.” HealthCare.Gov, HealthCare.gov, www.healthcare.gov/contact-us/. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
“HealthSherpa for Agents.” HealthSherpa.Com, HealthSherpa, www.healthsherpa.com/agents/features. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
WPS Data Breach Leads to Issue of New Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers:
Alder, Steve. “CMS Confirms 3.1 Million Individuals Affected by MOVEit Hack on Wisconsin Physicians Service.” Hipaajournal.Com, The HIPAA Journal, 25 Sept. 2024, www.hipaajournal.com/cms-wisconsin-physicians-service-moveit-hack/.
“CMS Notifies Additional Individuals Potentially Impacted by MOVEit Data Breach.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 16 Nov. 2023, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-notifies-additional-individuals-potentially-impacted-moveit-data-breach.
“CMS Notifies Individuals Potentially Impacted by Data Breach.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 6 Sept. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-notifies-individuals-potentially-impacted-data-breach.
“CMS Responding to Data Breach at Contractor.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 28 July 2023, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-responding-data-breach-contractor.
Olsen, Emily. “CMS Says Data Breach at Contractor Could Affect More than 946,000 Medicare Beneficiaries.” Healthcare Dive, Healthcare Dive, 9 Sept. 2024, www.healthcaredive.com/news/cms-wisconsin-physicians-service-insurance-corporation-moveit-data-breach/726416/.
Goodin, Dan. “Casualties Keep Growing in This Month’s Mass Exploitation of Moveit 0-Day.” Arstechnica.Com, Ars Technica, 27 June 2023, arstechnica.com/security/2023/06/casualties-keep-growing-in-this-months-mass-exploitation-of-moveit-0-day/.
“Over 940,000 Medicare Beneficiaries Impacted by Data Breach.” Jdsupra.Com, JD Supra, 24 Oct. 2024, www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/over-940-000-medicare-beneficiaries-1539983/.
Reed, Jonathan. “The MOVEIT Breach Impact and Fallout: How Can You Respond?” Securityintelligence.Com, Security Intelligence, 23 Oct. 2024, securityintelligence.com/news/the-moveit-breach-impact-and-fallout-how-can-you-respond/.
Student Loan Forgiveness Update:
Gibson, Kate. “Biden Administration Extends Repayment Freeze for 8 Million Student Loan Borrowers.” Edited by Alain Sherter, Cbsnews.Com, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2024, www.cbsnews.com/news/student-loan-forgiveness-payment-biden/.
Cavanaugh, Lynn. “Biden Freezes Student Loan Repayments for 6 Months for 8M Borrowers.” Benefitspro.Com, BenefitsPro, 22 Oct. 2024, www.benefitspro.com/2024/10/22/biden-freezes-student-loan-repayments-for-6-months-for-8m-borrowers/.
“Biden-Harris Administration Releases Proposed Rules to Authorize Debt Relief to Nearly Eight Million Borrowers Experiencing Hardship.” Ed.Gov, U.S. Department of Education, 25 Oct. 2024, www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/biden-harris-administration-releases-proposed-rules-authorize-debt-relief.
Cavanaugh, Lynn. “Biden’s New Student Loan Forgiveness Plan: A 3rd Attempt at Debt Cancellation for 8M.” Benefitspro.Com, BenefitsPro, 28 Oct. 2024, www.benefitspro.com/2024/10/28/bidens-new-student-loan-forgiveness-plan-a-3rd-attempt-at-debt-cancellation-for-8m/.
Johnston, Courtney. “Biden’s New Student Loan Forgiveness Plan Could Offer Debt Relief to 8 Million Borrowers.” Cnet.Com, CNET, 25 Oct. 2024, www.cnet.com/personal-finance/loans/bidens-new-student-loan-forgiveness-plan-could-offer-debt-relief-to-8-million-borrowers/.
“Department of Education Updates on Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE Plan).” Ed.Gov, U.S. Department of Education, 24 Oct. 2024, www.ed.gov/higher-education/manage-your-loans/save-plan.
“SAVE Plan Court Actions: Impact on Borrowers.” Studentaid.Gov, Federal Student Aid, 2 Oct. 2024, studentaid.gov/announcements-events/save-court-actions.
“Student Debt Relief Hardship.” Ed.Gov, U.S. Department of Education, www.ed.gov/media/document/nprm-hardship-sldr. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
Zimmer, Evan. “Student Loan Payment Pause Extended for 6 More Months for SAVE Borrowers.” Cnet.Com, CNET, 21 Oct. 2024, www.cnet.com/personal-finance/loans/student-loan-payment-pause-extended-for-6-more-months-for-save-borrowers/.
Apple AirPods Pro Hearing Tools Launch:
“Airpods Pro 2 - Hearing Health.” Apple, Apple, www.apple.com/airpods-pro/hearing-health/. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
Welch, Chris. “Apple’s Airpods pro Just Got Much Better - No Matter What Port Is on the Case.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 18 Sept. 2023, www.theverge.com/23878402/apple-airpods-pro-usb-c-adaptive-audio-conversation-awareness-test-review.
Steele, Billy. “Apple’s Airpods pro Hearing Health Tools Could Normalize Wearing Earbuds Everywhere.” Engadget.Com, Engadget, 29 Oct. 2024, www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/apples-airpods-pro-hearing-health-tools-could-normalize-wearing-earbuds-everywhere-140054858.html.
“Apple Introduces Airpods 4 and a Hearing Health Experience with Airpods Pro 2.” Apple.Com, Apple, 29 Oct. 2024, www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/09/apple-introduces-airpods-4-and-a-hearing-health-experience-with-airpods-pro-2/.
“How Apple Developed the World’s First End-to-End Hearing Health Experience.” Apple.Com, Apple, 30 Oct. 2024, www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/10/how-apple-developed-the-worlds-first-end-to-end-hearing-health-experience/.
Welch, Chris. “How to Take the Apple Hearing Test.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 28 Oct. 2024, www.theverge.com/24278477/apple-hearing-test-how-to.
Shastri, Devi. “Apple Airpods Pro’s New Hearing Aid Feature Could Help People Face a Problem They’d Rather Ignore.” Apnews.Com, AP News, 28 Oct. 2024, apnews.com/article/hearing-aids-airpods-apple-android-fsa-hsa-e0f243bcaff9b4c5b5068b546012b338.
Cadwell, Blake. “How to Use Airpods as Hearing Aids (with Screenshots).” Edited by Amy Sarow, Soundly.Com, Soundly., 28 Oct. 2024, www.soundly.com/blog/airpods-as-hearing-aids.
Ulanoff, Lance. “I’m Done Being Rude to People Thanks to Adaptive Audio on Airpods Pro 2.” Techradar.Com, TechRadar, 19 Sept. 2023, www.techradar.com/audio/im-done-being-rude-to-people-thanks-to-adaptive-audio-on-airpods-pro-2.
Carey, Bridget. “I Tested the Apple Airpod pro 2 Hearing Aid Software Early. Here’s Everything You Need to Know.” Cnet.Com, CNET, 21 Oct. 2024, www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-tested-the-apple-airpod-pro-2-hearing-aid-software-early-heres-everything-you-need-to-know/.
Apple Intelligence iOS 18.1 Features:
Crouse, Megan. “Apple Intelligence Cheat Sheet: A Complete Guide for 2024.” Techrepublic.Com, TechRepublic, 29 Oct. 2024, www.techrepublic.com/article/apple-intelligence-cheat-sheet/.
Disotto, John-Anthony. “Apple Intelligence Features Explained - Everything You Need to Know about Apple AI and When You Can Use It.” Techradar.Com, TechRadar, 11 Sept. 2024, www.techradar.com/computing/artificial-intelligence/apple-intelligence-features-explained-everything-you-need-to-know-about-apple-ai-and-when-you-can-use-it.
“Apple Intelligence Is Available Today on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.” Apple.Com, Apple Newsroom, 29 Oct. 2024, www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/10/apple-intelligence-is-available-today-on-iphone-ipad-and-mac/.
Ortiz, Sabrina. “Can’t Find Apple’s AI Features after Upgrading to iOS 18.1? Do This.” Zdnet.Com, ZDNET, 29 Oct. 2024, www.zdnet.com/article/cant-find-apples-ai-features-after-upgrading-to-ios-18-1-do-this/.
Carlson, Jeff. “If You Want Apple Intelligence on Your iPhone, Here’s What You Need to Do.” Cnet.Com, CNET, 29 Oct. 2024, www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/if-you-want-apple-intelligence-on-your-iphone-heres-what-you-need-to-do/.
Miller, Chance. “iOS 18.2 with New Apple Intelligence Features Coming in December, Apple Confirms.” 9to5mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 28 Oct. 2024, 9to5mac.com/2024/10/28/ios-18-2-release-date/.
Michaels, Philip. “iOS 18 Memory Movie Is One of Apple Intelligence’s Best Features - Here’s How to Use It.” Tomsguide.Com, Tom’s Guide, 26 Sept. 2024, www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphones/how-to-create-a-memory-movie-with-apple-intelligence-on-your-iphone.
Priday, Richard. “I Tried All New Apple Intelligence Features in IOS 18.1 - Here’s the Best (and Worst).” Tomsguide.Com, Tom’s Guide, 28 Oct. 2024, www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphones/i-tried-all-new-apple-intelligence-features-in-ios-18-1-heres-the-best-and-worst.
Carlson, Jeff. “These 3 Apple Intelligence Features in IOS 18.1 Are the Ones You’ll Actually Use.” Cnet.Com, CNET, 30 Oct. 2024, www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/these-3-apple-intelligence-features-in-ios-18-1-are-the-ones-youll-actually-use/.
Resources:
1 Million New Medicare Beneficiary Identifiers to be Issued After WPS Data Breach: https://ritterim.com/blog/1-million-new-medicare-beneficiary-identifiers-to-be-issued-after-wps-data-breach/
ACA 101: Selling Under-65 Health Insurance: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG6248
CMS Implements Marketplace Security Enhancements for EDE & DE Pathways: https://ritterim.com/blog/cms-implements-marketplace-security-enhancements-for-ede-and-de-pathways/
How Ask Integrity Can Streamline Your Medicare Sales Appointments: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG6255
How to Ask Your Current Clients for Referrals: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG623
How to Stay Compliant During All Medicare Sales: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG628
Key Changes for ACA Open Enrollment 2025 ft. Ross Baker from HealthSherpa: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG2024RossBaker
Simplify Marketplace Enrollments with HealthSherpa: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG627
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
Monday Oct 28, 2024
Monday Oct 28, 2024
Your clients may not be aware of extra benefits in select Medicare Advantage plans. Learn about OTC benefits and how you can educate your clients about them.
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
How to Ask Your Current Clients for Referrals: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-to-ask-your-current-clients-for-referrals/
Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://app.ritterim.com/public/registration/
Signs It’s Time to Expand Your Insurance Portfolio & Make the Move: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG605
The Insurance Agent’s Guide to Generating Referrals FREE eBook download: https://ritterim.com/insurance-referral-generation/
Understanding Medicare Advantage Training: https://ritterim.com/knight-school/solid-foundation/understanding-medicare-advantage/1/
References:
GA Foods, GA Foods, www.gafoods.com/. Accessed 16 Aug. 2024.
Freed, Meredith, et al. “Medicare Advantage in 2024: Enrollment Update and Key Trends.” KFF, KFF, 8 Aug. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/medicare-advantage-in-2024-enrollment-update-and-key-trends/.
Freed, Meredith, et al. “Medicare Advantage in 2024: Premiums, Out-of-Pocket Limits, Supplemental Benefits, and Prior Authorization.” KFF, KFF, 8 Aug. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/medicare-advantage-in-2024-premiums-out-of-pocket-limits-supplemental-benefits-and-prior-authorization/.
“Medicare Monthly Enrollment.” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Data, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services, 16 July 2024, https://data.cms.gov/summary-statistics-on-beneficiary-enrollment/medicare-and-medicaid-reports/medicare-monthly-enrollment.
Mom’s Meals, Mom’s Meals, www.momsmeals.com/. Accessed 16 Aug. 2024.
SilverSneakers, SilverSneakers, https://tools.silversneakers.com/. Accessed 16 Aug. 2024.
“Silver&Fit.” Silverandfit.com, Silver&Fit, www.silverandfit.com/. Accessed 16 Aug. 2024.
Levy, Alexis, et al. “Supplemental Benefit Trends 2023.” HealthScape, Chartis, 14 Feb. 2023, www.healthscape.com/insights/supplemental-benefit-trends-2023/.
Badger, Cary. “The Rise of Over-the-Counter Programs in Medicare Advantage Plans.” HealthScape, Chartis, 30 Apr. 2019, www.healthscape.com/insights/the-rise-of-over-the-counter-otc-benefits-in-medicare-advantage/.
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Friday Oct 25, 2024
Friday Oct 25, 2024
The Friday Five for October 25, 2024:
Adobe Fresco Now Completely Free for Everyone
Amazon and Walmart Announce Pharmacy Delivery Expansions
Stride 2025 Open Enrollment Study
KFF Analysis on Med Supp Enrollment Data
Medigap Deductibles and OOP Costs for 2025
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Adobe Fresco Now Completely Free for Everyone:
Foley, Joe. “Adobe Fresco Is Now Completely Free for All.” Creative Bloq, Creative Bloq, 23 Oct. 2024, www.creativebloq.com/art/digital-art/adobe-fresco-is-now-completely-free-for-all.
Gan, Jeremy. “Adobe Fresco’s Previously Paywalled Features Are Now Free for Everyone.” Engadget, Engadget, 23 Oct. 2024, www.engadget.com/apps/adobe-frescos-previously-paywalled-features-are-now-free-for-everyone-141956420.html.
Weatherbed, Jess. “Adobe Made Its Painting App Completely Free to Take on Procreate.” The Verge, The Verge, 23 Oct. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/10/23/24277533/adobe-fresco-painting-app-free-availablility-procreate.
“Digital Painting and Drawing App | Adobe Fresco.” Adobe.Com, Adobe, www.adobe.com/products/fresco.html. Accessed 24 Oct. 2024.
Amazon and Walmart Announce Pharmacy Delivery Expansions:
Accelerating Convenience: Walmart Launches Nationwide Same-Day Pharmacy Delivery, Helping Customers Live Better, 22 Oct. 2024, corporate.walmart.com/news/2024/10/22/accelerating-convenience-walmart-launches-nationwide-same-day-pharmacy-delivery-helping-customers-live-better.
“Amazon Pharmacy Plans to Expand Same-Day Delivery of Medications to Nearly Half the US in 2025.” Amazon.Com, Amazon, 9 Oct. 2024, www.aboutamazon.com/news/retail/amazon-pharmacy-expands-same-day-prescription-delivery-united-states.
Dr. Sai Balasubramanian, M.D. “Amazon Pharmacy’s Rapid Growth Will Soon Make Instant Access to Medication the New Normal.” Forbes.Com, Forbes, 16 Oct. 2024, www.forbes.com/sites/saibala/2024/10/14/amazon-pharmacys-rapid-growth-will-soon-make-instant-access-to-medication-the-new-normal/.
Palmer, Annie. “Amazon Same-Day Prescription Delivery Expanding to Nearly Half of U.S. in 2025.” Cnbc.Com, CNBC, 9 Oct. 2024, www.cnbc.com/2024/10/09/amazon-same-day-prescription-delivery-expanding-to-half-of-us-in-2025.html.
Tong, Noah. “Walmart Offers Same-Day Prescription Delivery with Plans to Reach 49 States.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 22 Oct. 2024, www.fiercehealthcare.com/retail/hlth24-walmart-simplify-online-pharmacy-orders-49-states.
Gibson, Kate. “Walmart Plans to Deliver Prescriptions Nationwide in as Little as 30 Minutes.” Edited by Alain Sherter, Cbsnews.Com, CBS, 22 Oct. 2024, www.cbsnews.com/news/walmart-prescription-delivery-amazon/.
Stride 2025 ACA Open Enrollment Study:
“2025 Annual Open Enrollment Survey - A New Report from Stride.” Blog.Stridehealth.Com, Stride Health, 17 Oct. 2024, blog.stridehealth.com/open-enrollment-2025survey.
Popke, Michael. “Almost 75% of ACA Buyers Will Not Compare Plans for 2025.” Benefitspro.Com, BenefitsPro, 21 Oct. 2024, www.benefitspro.com/2024/10/21/almost-75-of-aca-buyers-will-not-compare-plans-for-2025/.
KFF Analysis on Med Supp Enrollment Data:
Freed, Meredith, Nancy Ochieng, et al. “Key Facts about Medigap Enrollment and Premiums for Medicare Beneficiaries.” KFF, KFF, 18 Oct. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/key-facts-about-medigap-enrollment-and-premiums-for-medicare-beneficiaries/.
“Medicare Supplement Enrollment Down Slightly in 2023.” Markfarrah.Com, Mark Farrah Associates, 28 May 2024, www.markfarrah.com/mfa-briefs/medicare-supplement-enrollment-down-slightly-in-2023.
Freed, Meredith, Nancy Ochieng, et al. “Medigap May Be Elusive for Medicare Beneficiaries with Pre-Existing Conditions - Issue Brief - 10506.” KFF, KFF, 18 Oct. 2024, www.kff.org/report-section/medigap-may-be-elusive-for-medicare-beneficiaries-with-pre-existing-conditions-issue-brief/.
Medigap Deductibles and OOP Costs for 2025:
“F, G & J Deductible Announcements.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/medigap/f-g-j-deductible-announcements. Accessed 23 Oct. 2024.
“K & L Out-of-Pocket Limits Announcements.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-drug-plans/medigap/k-l-out-of-pocket-limits-announcements. Accessed 23 Oct. 2024.
Resources:
ACA 101: Selling Under-65 Health Insurance: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG6248
Helping Clients with Marketplace Eligibility Appeals: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG624
How to Ask Your Current Clients for Referrals: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG623
KFF 2025 Medicare Part D Snapshot Report: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20241018
The 2025 COLA Increase & How It Affects Your Clients: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGN20241015
The Value of Plan N for Medicare Shoppers ft. Ted Sims: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGTedSims2024
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Wednesday Oct 23, 2024
Wednesday Oct 23, 2024
This episode is for the bibliophiles! Check out Tina’s finds for the best eBook and audiobook apps.
Libby: https://libbyapp.com/
Everand: https://www.everand.com/
Kobo Books: https://www.kobo.com/us/en
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
Agent’s Guide to Phone Communication Resources: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG608
Apps for Tracking Business Expenses: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA67
Best Video Editing Apps for Social Media: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA69
Modern Medicare Marketing for Today’s Agents FREE eBook Download: https://ritterim.com/modern-marketing-guide/
The Best Books for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG590
References:
“Ebooks, Audiobooks & More - Read Free for 30 Days.” Everand, www.everand.com/. Accessed 8 Oct. 2024.
“Kobo.Com United States Store - Ebooks, Audiobooks, Ereaders and Reading Apps.” Kobo, www.kobo.com/us/en. Accessed 8 Oct. 2024.
Libby, www.libbyapp.com/. Accessed 8 Oct. 2024.
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Friday Oct 18, 2024
Friday Oct 18, 2024
The Friday Five for October 18, 2024:
Elevance to Require Paper Apps for 2025 MAPD PPO Plans in Most States
Federal Trade Commission Announces “Click to Cancel” Rule
New Apple iPad Mini & Amazon Kindle ColorSoft
Impact of Medicare Part D Changes by State
KFF 2025 Medicare Part D Snapshot Report
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Elevance Requires Paper Apps for 2025 MAPD PPO Plans in Most States:
Elevance to Require Paper Apps for 2025 MAPD PPO Plans in Most States: https://ritterim.com/blog/elevance-to-require-paper-apps-for-2025-mapd-ppo-plans-in-most-states/
Federal Trade Commission Announces “Click to Cancel” Rule:
Selyukh, Alina. “Canceling Subscriptions Has to Be as Easy as Signing up, FTC Says in a New Rule.” NPR, NPR, 16 Oct. 2024, www.npr.org/2024/10/16/nx-s1-5154814/click-to-cancel-subscriptions-memberships-ftc-rule.
Solomon Ensor, Julia. “Click to Cancel: The FTC’s Amended Negative Option Rule and What It Means for Your Business.” FTC.Gov, Federal Trade Commission, 16 Oct. 2024, www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog/2024/10/click-cancel-ftcs-amended-negative-option-rule-what-it-means-your-business.
“Federal Trade Commission Announces Final ‘Click-to-Cancel’ Rule Making It Easier for Consumers to End Recurring Subscriptions and Memberships.” FTC.Gov, Federal Trade Commission, 16 Oct. 2024, www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/10/federal-trade-commission-announces-final-click-cancel-rule-making-it-easier-consumers-end-recurring.
“Rule Concerning Recurring Subscriptions and Other Negative Option Programs.” FTC.Gov, Federal Trade Commission, www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/p064202_negative_option_rule.pdf. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“The FTC’s ‘Click to Cancel’ Rule.” FTC.Gov, Federal Trade Commission, 16 Oct. 2024, www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/NegOptions-1page.pdf.
Roth, Emma. “The FTC Is Finally Making It Easier to Cancel Your Gym Membership.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 16 Oct. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/10/16/24271649/ftc-click-to-cancel-subscriptions-final-rule.
da Silva, João. “US ‘click to Cancel’ Rule to Tackle Subscription Traps.” BBC News, BBC, 17 Oct. 2024, www.bbc.com/news/articles/c07nlvmyl05o.
Apple iPad Mini & Amazon Kindle ColorSoft:
“Apple Introduces Powerful New iPad Mini Built for Apple Intelligence.” Apple.Com, Apple, 15 Oct. 2024, www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/10/apple-introduces-powerful-new-ipad-mini-built-for-apple-intelligence/.
Fried, Ina. “Amazon Debuts Color Screen Kindle, Updates Other e-Readers.” Axios.Com, Axios, 17 Oct. 2024, www.axios.com/2024/10/17/amazon-color-screen-kindle-e-reader-updates.
Staff, Amazon. “Amazon Reveals First Color Kindle, New Kindle Scribe, and More.” Aboutamazon.Com, Amazon, 16 Oct. 2024, www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices/new-kindle-color-scribe-paperwhite-entry.
“Amazon Reveals Its First Color Kindle E-Reader after Years of Development | Reuters.” Reuters.Com, Reuters, 16 Oct. 2024, www.reuters.com/technology/amazon-reveals-its-first-color-kindle-e-reader-after-years-development-2024-10-16/.
LeClair, Dave. “IPad Mini 7 Unveiled with A17 Pro Chip - Release Date, Specs, Price and More.” Tomsguide.Com, Tom’s Guide, 15 Oct. 2024, www.tomsguide.com/tablets/ipads/ipad-mini-7-unveiled-with-a17-pro-chip-release-date-specs-price-and-more.
Kennemer, Quentyn. “You Can Now Preorder the New iPad Mini.” Verge.Com, The Verge, 15 Oct. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/10/15/24268182/ipad-mini-2024-preorder-how-to-buy-price-release-date.
Impact of Medicare Part D Changes by State:
Bell, Allison. “11 Worst States for Medicare Drug Plan Menu Cuts.” Thinkadvisor.Com, ThinkAdvisor, 9 Oct. 2024, www.thinkadvisor.com/2024/10/09/11-worst-states-for-medicare-drug-plan-menu-cuts/.
2025 Medicare Part D Snapshot Report:
Cubanski, Juliette. “A Current Snapshot of the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Benefit.” KFF.Org, KFF, 9 Oct. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/a-current-snapshot-of-the-medicare-part-d-prescription-drug-benefit/.
Cubanski, Juliette. “Medicare Part D Premiums Are Increasing for Many but Not All Stand-Alone Plans in 2025, Reflecting Effects of New Premium Stabilization Demonstration.” KFF.Org, KFF, 7 Oct. 2024, www.kff.org/policy-watch/medicare-part-d-premiums-are-increasing-for-many-but-not-all-stand-alone-plans-in-2025-reflecting-effects-of-new-premium-stabilization-demonstration/.
Resources:
A Review of Integrity's Top Medicare Quoting Tools: https://ritterim.com/blog/a-review-of-the-integrity-offered-medicare-quoting-software/
CMS Announces Medicare $2 Drug List Model RFI: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20241011
Changes to Medicare in 2025 Affect Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGB20241012
Cigna to Sell Medicare Business to HCSC: https://ritterim.com/blog/cigna-to-sell-medicare-business-to-hcsc/
How to Ask Your Current Clients for Referrals: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG623
Meet Your Sales Team: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
The 2025 COLA Increase & How It Affects Your Clients: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGN20241015
The Value of Plan N for Medicare Shoppers ft. Ted Sims: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGTedSims2024
What CMS Requires Medicare Agents to Discuss Prior to Enrollments: https://ritterim.com/blog/what-cms-requires-medicare-agents-to-discuss-prior-to-enrollments/
When Do Med Supp Plans K, L, M, & N Make Sense? https://ritterim.com/blog/when-do-med-supp-plans-k-l-m-and-n-make-sense/
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
Flip the script from disruption to opportunity! Ted Sims from Integrity Marketing Group joins Sarah to chat about how to prepare for potential Medicare beneficiary shopping as well as how agents can use Integrity tools to streamline work and save time.
Read the text version
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Resources:
Ask Integrity Guide: https://learningcenter.tawebhost.com/Integrity-Getting-Started-Ask-Integrity.pdf
Learn about Ask Integrity™: https://integrity.com/ask-integrity/
Learn more about PlanEnroll: https://ritterim.com/planenroll/
Integrity Learning Center: https://clients.integrity.com/learning-center
Integrity Training Schedule: https://learningcenter.tawebhost.com/MedicareCENTER-Webinar-Schedule.pdf
MedicareCENTER:https://integrity.com/medicarecenter/
Not partnered with Integrity? Register here: https://identity.integrity.com/register
Staying Motivated Amidst Change & Disruption: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGM20240710
Tech News Roundup: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240927
What to Do if Your Medicare Part D Plans Become Non-Commissionable: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGN20241005
References:
Haubensak, Carrie. “2023 Medicare Supplement Loss Ratios by Plan.” CSG Actuarial, CSG Actuarial, csg-actuarial-wordpress.appspot.com/news/2023-medicare-supplement-loss-ratios-by-plan. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“2023 Minnesota Statutes.” Revisor.MN.Gov, Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes, www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
Feekin, Doug. “Average Medicare Supplement Rate Increases Lower in 2021.” CSG Actuarial, CSG Actuarial, 15 Sept. 2021, www.csgactuarial.com/news/average-medicare-supplement-rate-increases-lower-in-2021/.
“Does Your Provider Accept Medicare as Full Payment?” Medicare.Gov, Medicare, www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/medicare-costs/provider-accept-Medicare. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“GA R&R - Guaranteed Issue for Eligible Persons.” Rules.Sos.GA.Gov, State of Georgia, rules.sos.ga.gov/GAC/120-2-8-.12?urlRedirected=yes&data=admin&lookingfor=120-2-8-.12. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“Health Care Practitioners Medicare Fee Control Act.” Legis.State.Pa.Us, PA General Assembly, 10 July 1990, www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/US/PDF/1990/0/0081..PDF.
“March 2023 Report to the Congress: Medicare Payment Policy.” MedPAC.Gov, Med Pac, 15 Mar. 2023, www.medpac.gov/document/march-2023-report-to-the-congress-medicare-payment-policy/.
“Massachusetts Bulletin for People with Medicare.” Mass.Gov, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, https://www.mass.gov/doc/addendumpdf/download. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“Medicare Balance Billing Brochure.” ODH.Ohio.Gov, Ohio Department of Health, odh.ohio.gov/know-our-programs/medicare-balance-billing/resources/medicare-balance-billing-brochure. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“Medicare E-Visits.” Medicare.Gov, Medicare, www.medicare.gov/coverage/e-visits-0. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“Medicare Participating Physician or Supplier Agreement.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 1 Nov. 2022, www.cms.gov/medicare/cms-forms/cms-forms/downloads/cms460.pdf.
“Medicare Participation Announcement.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-participation-announcement.pdf. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“Medigap Plan N Benefits & Costs 2024.” MedicareSupplement.Com, TZ Insurance Solutions, www.medicaresupplement.com/medigap/plans/n/?force_destination=c3cee4730cf2fe66. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“Medicare Supplement Insurance Minimum Standards.” Rules.Sos.Ri.Gov, Rhode Island Department of State, rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/230-20-30-7. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“Medicare Supplement Insurance Minimum Standards Regulations.” Dfr.Vermont.Gov, State of Vermont Department of Financial Regulation, dfr.vermont.gov/reg-bul-ord/medicare-supplement-insurance-minimum-standards-regulations. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
“Medicare Supplement Premium Rates – Looking to the Past and Planning for the Future.” GenRe.Com, Gen Re, 24 Oct. 2023, www.genre.com/us/knowledge/publications/2023/october/medicare-supplement-premium-rates-en.
Noga, Russel. “Rate Increase History for Medigap Plans.” Medisupps.Com, Medisupps.com, 10 Jan. 2024, www.medisupps.com/rate-increase-history-for-medigap-plans/.
Boccuti, Cristina. “Paying a Visit to the Doctor: Current Financial Protections for Medicare Patients When Receiving Physician Services.” KFF, KFF, 9 Jan. 2017, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/paying-a-visit-to-the-doctor-current-financial-protections-for-medicare-patients-when-receiving-physician-services/.
“Revised Questions and Answers Regarding Implementation of Medicare Supplement Plan N Copayment, Deductible and Coinsurance .” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 10 Apr. 2010, www.cms.gov/medicare/health-plans/medigap/medigap-news-email-updates-items/cms1234920.
“Supplemental Insurance (Medigap) Plans in Georgia.” Medicare.Gov, Medicare, www.medicare.gov/medigap-supplemental-insurance-plans/#/m/plans?fips=13057&zip=30115&year=2025&lang=en. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
Fuglesten Biniek, Jeannie, et al. “Traditional Medicare Spending Fell Almost 6% in 2020 as Service Use Declined Early in the COVID-19 Pandemic.” KFF, KFF, 1 June 2022, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/traditional-medicare-spending-fell-almost-6-in-2020-as-service-use-declined-early-in-the-covid-19-pandemic/.
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
Friday Oct 11, 2024
Friday Oct 11, 2024
The Friday Five for October 11, 2024:
CMS Final Guidance on Round 2 of Medicare Drug Price Negotiations
HHS Releases ACA Marketplace 2026 Proposed Rule
Apple Intelligence Features Coming October 28?
Setting the Record Straight on Cigna & HCSC
CMS Announces Medicare $2 Drug List Model Request for Information
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
CMS Final Guidance on Round 2 of Medicare Drug Price Negotiations:
“HHS Releases Final Guidance for Second Cycle of Historic Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2 Oct. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hhs-releases-final-guidance-second-cycle-historic-medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program.
“Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program Final Guidance ...” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program-ipay-2027-final-guidance-and-mfp-effectuation.pdf. Accessed 9 Oct. 2024.
HHS Releases ACA Marketplace 2026 Proposed Rule:
Tong, Noah. “CMS Proposes Risk Adjustment Changes, Broker Fraud Crackdown for 2026 Plan Year.” Fierce Healthcare, Fierce Healthcare, 4 Oct. 2024, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/cms-proposes-risk-adjustment-changes-fraud-crackdown-and-more.
“HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2026 Proposed Rule.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 4 Oct. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/hhs-notice-benefit-and-payment-parameters-2026-proposed-rule.
Apple Intelligence Features Coming October 28?
Chen, Brian X. “Apple’s A.I. Is Landing Soon on iPhones. Here’s What It’s Like.” NYTimes.Com, The New York Times, 2 Oct. 2024, www.nytimes.com/2024/10/02/technology/personaltech/apple-intelligence-iphone.html.
Clover, Juli. “Here Are All of the Apple Intelligence Features in IOS 18.1.” MacRumors, MacRumors, 8 Oct. 2024, www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-18-1-apple-intelligence/.
Shakir, Umar. “Here’s What Your iPhone 16 Will Do with Apple Intelligence - Eventually.” The Verge, The Verge, 10 Sept. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/9/10/24237714/apple-intelligence-generative-ai-features-update-schedule.
Davis, Wes. “Your iPhone 16 May Get Its First Apple Intelligence Features Later This Month.” The Verge, The Verge, 6 Oct. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/10/6/24263398/ios-18-iphone-16-apple-intelligence-coming-october-update-ai-notification-summaries.
Setting the Record Straight on Cigna & HCSC:
“CIGNA Healthcare Offers Medicare Customers Value, Stability and Choice with 2025 Plans.” Cigna Healthcare Newsroom, Cigna, 1 Oct. 2024, newsroom.cigna.com/cigna-healthcare-medicare-2025-plans.
Minemyer, Paige. “Cigna Inks Deal to Sell Medicare Business to HCSC for $3.7B.” Fierce Healthcare, Fierce Healthcare, 31 Jan. 2024, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/cigna-inks-deal-sell-medicare-business-hcsc-37b-deal.
“HCSC Agrees to Acquire Medicare Businesses and CareAllies from Cigna.” HCSC Agrees to Acquire Medicare Businesses and CareAllies from Cigna, Health Care Service Corporations (HCSC), 31 Jan. 2024, www.hcsc.com/newsroom/news-releases/2024/agreement-acquire-cigna-medicare-careallies-businesses.
CMS Announces Medicare $2 Drug List Model Request for Information:
“Biden-Harris Administration Takes Next Step on Proposed Model to Lower Prescription Drug Costs for People with Medicare.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 8 Oct. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-takes-next-step-proposed-model-lower-prescription-drug-costs-people.
Fowler, Liz, and Vino Mitta. “CMS Innovation Center’s One-Year Update on the Executive Order to Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Americans.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 11 Oct. 2023, www.cms.gov/blog/cms-innovation-centers-one-year-update-executive-order-lower-prescription-drug-costs-americans.
“Executive Order on Lowering Prescription Drug Costs for Americans.” The White House, The United States Government, 14 Oct. 2022, www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/10/14/executive-order-on-lowering-prescription-drug-costs-for-americans/.
“Medicare Two Dollar Drug List Model.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/medicare-two-dollar-drug-list-model. Accessed 9 Oct. 2024.
“Medicare $2 Drug List Model - Request for Information (RFI) - Responses Due December 9, 2024.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/files/x/newdirection-rfi.pdf. Accessed 9 Oct. 2024.
Resources:
2025 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Premiums: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20241004
Cigna to Sell Medicare Business to HCSC: https://ritterim.com/blog/cigna-to-sell-medicare-business-to-hcsc
Key Changes for ACA Open Enrollment 2025 ft. Ross Baker from HealthSherpa: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG2024RossBaker
Preparing Clients for the New Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Program: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG621
Staying Motivated Amidst Change & Disruption: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGM20240710
Webinars & Events: https://ritterim.com/events/
What to Do if Your Medicare Part D Plans Become Non-Commissionable: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGN20241005
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/