CMS Medicaid Work Requirements

The Friday Five for June 12, 2026:
Apple WWDC 2026 Takeaways
Instagram Grid Arrangement Feature
IntegrityCONNECT Annuities & What’s Coming Soon
KFF MA Enrollment Stats & Trends for 2026
CMS Medicaid Work Requirements
 
Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Apple WWDC 2026:
“Apple previews new child safety features.” Apple.com, Apple, 8 Jun 2026, https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/06/apple-previews-new-child-safety-features/.
Weatherbed, Jess. “Apple is redesigning Screen Time and overhauling child controls.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 8 Jun 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/945898/apple-parental-controls-child-accounts-wwdc2026.
Perez, Sarah. “Apple puts parents back in control of kids’ iPhone use.” Techcrunch.com, Tech Crunch, 8 Jun 2026, https://techcrunch.com/2026/06/08/apple-puts-parents-back-in-control-of-kids-iphone-use/.
 
Instagram Grid Arrangement Feature:
Moon, Mariella. “Instagram finally lets you reorder posts on your grid.” Engadget.com, Engadget, 8 Jun 2026, https://www.engadget.com/2190179/instagram-how-to-reorder-grid/.
Lawler, Richard. “Instagram is finally letting everyone reorganize their profile grid.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 8 Jun 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/946458/instagram-is-finally-letting-everyone-reorganize-their-grid.
 
IntegrityCONNECT Annuities & What’s Coming Soon:
Events & Webinars from Ritter Insurance Marketing
IntegrityCONNECT Learning Webinars
 
KFF MA Enrollment Stats & Trends for 2026:
Freed, Meredith et. al. “Medicare Advantage in 2026: Enrollment Update and Key Trends.” KFF.org, KFF, 5 Jun 2026, https://www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-in-2026-enrollment-update-and-key-trends/.
Freed, Meredith et. al. “Medicare Advantage in 2026: Premiums, Out-of-Pocket Limits, Supplemental Benefits, and Prior Authorization.” KFF, KFF.org, 5 Jun 2026, https://www.kff.org/medicare/medicare-advantage-in-2026-premiums-out-of-pocket-limits-supplemental-benefits-and-prior-authorization/.
 
CMS Medicaid Work Requirements:
“CMS Launches Nationwide Framework to Implement Medicaid Work Requirements.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 1 Jun 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-launches-nationwide-framework-implement-medicaid-work-requirements.
Minemyer, Paige. “CMS outlines national framework to support rollout of Medicaid work requirements.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 1 Jun 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/cms-outlines-national-framework-support-rollout-medicaid-work-requirements. 
Pifer Parduhn, Rebecca. “CMS releases Medicaid work requirements guidance for states.” Healthcaredive.com, Healthcare Dive, 2 Jun 2026, https://www.healthcaredive.com/news/cms-medicaid-work-requirements-final-rule-state-guidance/821631/.
Tolbert, Jennifer. “CMS Requires More Restrictive Definition of Medical Frailty in New Medicaid Work Requirements Rule.” Kff.org, KFF, 2 Jun 2026, https://www.kff.org/quick-insights/cms-requires-more-restrictive-definition-of-medical-frailty-in-new-medicaid-work-requirements-rule/.
Minemyer, Paige. “Industry groups say final Medicaid work requirements rule imposes onerous documentation burden.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 2 Jun 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/industry-groups-say-final-medicaid-work-requirements-rule-imposes-onerous-documentation.
“Medicaid Program; Community Engagement Requirement for Certain Individuals.” Federalregister.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 3 June 2026, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/06/03/2026-11094/medicaid-program-community-engagement-requirement-for-certain-individuals.
“Medicaid Community Engagement Requirement for Certain Individuals Interim Final Rule with Comment Period (CMS-2454-IFC).” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 1 Jun 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/medicaid-community-engagement-requirement-certain-individuals-interim-final-rule-comment-period-cms.
 
Resources:
5 Takeaways from the 2027 CMS Marketplace Final Rule for Insurance Agents
2027 MA and Part D Max Commissions
Introducing the Integrity Health Plan
Should You Hire Licensed-Only Agents for Your Insurance Agency?
The Power of Daily Affirmations in Insurance Sales
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

2027 MA and Part D Max Commissions

The Friday Five for June 5, 2026:
Certification Reminder
Pod Rec: Before Breakfast
TRICARE Resources for Agents
Clover Health Star Ratings
2027 MA and Part D Max Commissions
 
Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌 Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Pod(cast) Rec(commendation): Before Breakfast:
Before Breakfast Podcast
Before Breakfast: Track your media
 
TRICARE Resources for Agents:
“TRICARE Plan Comparison Tool.” Tricare.mil, TRICARE, https://www.tricare.mil/compareplans, Accessed 3 June 2026.
“TRICARE Dental Options Fact Sheet.” Tricare.mil, TRICARE, https://tricare.mil/Publications/Fact-Sheets/dental_options, Accessed 3 June 2026.
“TRICARE Pharmacy Program Overview Fact Sheet.” Tricare.mil, TRICARE, https://tricare.mil/Publications/Fact-Sheets/pharmacy_overview, Accessed 3 June 2026.
“TRICARE Plans Overview Fact Sheet.” Tricare.mil, TRICARE, https://tricare.mil/Publications/Fact-Sheets/plans, Accessed 3 June 2026.
“TRICARE Qualifying Life Events Fact Sheet.” Tricare.mil, TRICARE, https://tricare.mil/Publications/Fact-Sheets/qle, Accessed 3 June 2026.
“TRICARE Young Adult Program Fact Sheet.” Tricare.mil, TRICARE, https://tricare.mil/Publications/Fact-Sheets/young_adult, Accessed 3 June 2026.
 
Clover Health Star Ratings:
Casolo, Elizabeth. “Clover beats CMS in Medicare Advantage star ratings lawsuit.” Beckerspayer.com, Becker’s Payer Issues, 29 May 2026, https://www.beckerspayer.com/legal/clover-beats-cms-in-medicare-advantage-star-ratings-lawsuit/.
“Court tells CMS to redo Clover’s Star Rating. Here’s why it should be on your radar.” Risehealth.org, Rise Health, 29 May 2026, https://www.risehealth.org/insights-articles/article/court-tells-cms-to-redo-clovers-star-rating-heres-why-it-should-be-on-your-radar/.
“Clover Insurance v. HHS: S.D. of Georgia Holds 20 Star Ratings Measures Unlawful.” Crowell.com, Crowell, 29 May 2026, https://www.crowell.com/en/insights/client-alerts/clover-insurance-v-hhs-sd-of-georgia-holds-20-star-ratings-measures-unlawful. 
WEBINAR: The Star Ratings Shakeup: Court Challenges CMS Measure Authority
 
2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Maximum Commissions:
2027 Maximum Broker Commissions for Medicare Advantage & Medicare Part D
Mulcahy, Gerard. “Contract Year 2027 Agent and Broker Compensation Rates, Referral/Finder’s Fees, Submissions, and Training and Testing Requirements.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 1 June 2026, https://www.ritterim.com/documents/cms-memos/memo-agent-broker-compensation-and-training-and-testing-requirements-cy2027.pdf.
 
Resources:
5 Takeaways from the 2027 CMS Marketplace Final Rule for Insurance Agents
CMS Update on BALANCE Model & Medicare GLP-1 Bridge
Introducing the Integrity Health Plan
 
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://x.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/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

5 Takeaways from the 2027 CMS Marketplace Final Rule for Insurance Agents

The 2027 Marketplace Final Rule from CMS is here! Join Sarah as she pulls out takeaways for insurance agents selling ACA plans.
 
Get Connected:
🤝 Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧 Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌 Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
2027 ACA Final Rule Makes Strides to Reduce Premiums
Drug Story Podcast with Thomas Goetz
Drug Story: Ivermectin on 99% Invisible
How to Grow Your Insurance Business by 45%
Introducing the Integrity Health Plan
Mounjaro means something? Ffrom TBOY he Best One Yet
On ivermectin and parasites (and other things) on Drug Story
The Complete Guide on How to Sell Prescription Drug Plans
 
References:
“CMS Final Rules Lowers Costs, Cracks Down on Fraud, and Expands State Control.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 15 May 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-final-rule-lowers-costs-cracks-down-fraud-expands-state-control.
Minemyer, Paige. “CMS pulls back limits on non-standard ACA plans in final rule.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 15 May 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/cms-pulls-back-limits-non-standard-aca-plans-final-rule.
“HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027 Final Rule.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 15 May 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/hhs-notice-benefit-payment-parameters-2027-final-rule.
“Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027; and Basic Health Program.” Federalregister.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 20 May 2026, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/05/20/2026-10050/patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-hhs-notice-of-benefit-and-payment-parameters-for-2027-and. Accessed 26 May 2026.
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Introducing the Integrity Health Plan

The Friday Five for May 15, 2026:
Field Notes: Camp Ritter
The “Spotify 20: Your Party of the Year(s)”
TRICARE Transition from DS Logon to myAuth
Scammers Using Meta to Target Seniors
Introducing the Integrity Health Plan
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
The “Spotify 20: Your Party of the Year(s)”:
“20 Days, 20 Data Drops.” Newsroom.spotify.com, Spotify, https://newsroom.spotify.com/spotify20/, Accessed 12 May 2026.
“It’s Your Party of the Year(s): A Look Back at Your Entire Music History on Spotify.” Newsroom.spotify.com, Spotify, 12 May 2026, https://newsroom.spotify.com/2026-05-12/spotify-20-personal-music-retrospective/.
Weatherbed, Jess. “Spotify’s latest ‘Wrapped’ covers your entire music history.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 12 May 2026, https://www.theverge.com/entertainment/928395/spotify-20th-anniversary-wrapped-recap.
“What 20 Years of Spotify Data Reveals About Our Listeners.” Newsroom.spotify.com, Spotify, 23 Apr. 2026, https://newsroom.spotify.com/2026-04-23/spotify-20-data-listening-trends/.
 
TRICARE Transition from DS Logon to myAuth:
“TRICARE logins transitioning to myAuth in 2026.” Newsroom.tricare.mil, TRICARE, 5 May 2026, https://newsroom.tricare.mil/News/TRICARE-News/Article/4477500/tricare-logins-transitioning-to-myauth-in-2026-what-you-need-to-know.
Obis, Anastasia. “TRICARE systems to transition to myAuth by the end of 2026.” Federalnewsnetwork.com, Federal News Network, 6 May 2026, https://federalnewsnetwork.com/technology-main/2026/05/tricare-systems-to-transition-to-myauth-by-the-end-of-2026/.
 
Scammers Using Meta to Target Seniors:
Ingram, David. “Facebook allows repeat scam artists to send ads to seniors, researchers say.” Nbcnews.com, NBC News, 11 May 2026, https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/security/meta-allows-repeat-scam-artists-target-seniors-report-says-rcna344068.
“How Meta Helps Medicare scammers target seniors.” Counterhate.com, Center for Countering Digital Hate, https://counterhate.com/research/scambook/, Accessed 12 May 2026.
 
Integrity Health Plan:
IntegrityCONNECT
Integrity Health Plan
Learn More About Integrity Benefits
The Exclusive Benefits Available By Joining Integrity through Ritter
 
Resources:
5 Things About the CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule
Cigna's ACA Exit, Certification Dates, Sleep Audio
Content Corner: Fundamentals of Senior Finance
FMO vs. IMO vs. NMO vs. MGA vs. GA: What’s the Difference?
How to Grow Your Insurance Business by 45%
Ready-Made Marketing for Insurance Agents: Inside the Content Library
 
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://x.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/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Content Corner: Fundamentals of Senior Finance

Don’t miss our brand-new series we’re calling Content Corner! Listen as we discuss the newest Content Library materials from Ritter Insurance Marketing - Fundamentals of Senior Finances. Keep listening for our conversation on recent internet trends and how to position them for your business marketing efforts.
 
Check Out the Fundamentals of Senior Finances from Ritter’s Content Library
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
Best Practices for Using Ritter’s Content Library
Content Library Homepage
Cooking For Beginners
Happy, Healthy Christmas
Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage
Medicare Basics
Senior Travel Guides
Top Spooky Spots for Halloween
Travel Tips
 
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://x.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/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

The Content Library: Content Marketing for Insurance Agents

Check out Ritter Insurance Marketing's Content Library for a simple way to Educate, Entertain, and Retain your clients. In this episode, we cover what the Content Library is, what it offers, and why you should be using it today!
Read the text version
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! 
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
Content Library Homepage
Content Library Best Practices
Content Library: Medicare Basics
Content Library: Senior Travel Guides
Content Library: Cooking for Beginners
Content Library: A Happy, Healthy Christmas
 
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube    
Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Threads
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Cigna Exits ACA, 2027 Certification Dates, Sleep Audio

The Friday Five for May 8, 2026:
Quick Hits & Headlines
CMS Admin Dr. Oz on Prior Auth
Audio to Help You Sleep
Cigna to Exit ACA for CY 2027
AHIP & NABIP Dates for CY 2027
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Quick Hits & Headlines May 8, 2026:
Roth, Emma. “Apple agrees to pay iPhone owners $250 million for not delivering AI Siri.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 5 May 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/924706/apple-iphone-siri-intelligence-class-action-lawsuit-settlement.
Joseph, Jibin. Got an iPhone 16 or 15 Pro? Apple May Owe You Up to $95 in AI Siri Settlement.” Pcmag.com, PC Mag, 6, May 2026, https://www.pcmag.com/news/got-an-iphone-16-or-15-pro-apple-may-owe-you-up-to-95-in-ai-siri-settlement.
Malik, Aisha. “Meta will use AI to analyze height and bone structure to identify if users are underage.” Techcrunch.com, Tech Crunch, 5 May 2026, https://techcrunch.com/2026/05/05/meta-will-use-ai-to-analyze-height-and-bone-structure-to-identify-if-users-are-underage/.
“New AI-Powered Age Assurance Measures to Place Teens in Age-Appropriate Experience.” Aboutfb.com, Meta, 5 May 2026, https://about.fb.com/news/2026/05/ai-age-assurance-teens/.
Malik, Aisha. “Threads finally brings messaging to the web.” Techcrunch.com, Tech Crunch, 5 May 2026, https://techcrunch.com/2026/05/05/threads-finally-brings-messaging-to-the-web/.
 
CMS Admin Dr. Oz on Prior Auth:
“CMS Announces Progress on Improving Prior Authorization Process.” Youtube.com, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 5 May 2026, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taZ2VqOy38A.
“CMS Electronic Prior Authorization Progress Highlights.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/files/image/electronic-prior-authorization-progress-timeline.gif, Accessed 5 May 2026.
“Moving Prior Authorization into the 21st Century.” Cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 5 May 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/blog/moving-prior-authorization-21st-century.
 
Audio to Help You Sleep:
ASG Podcast Audio for Sleep Playlist 🥱😴💤
Huang, Pien. “Americans aren’t sleeping enough. Here’s what could help.” Npr.org, National Public Radio, 2 May 2026, https://www.npr.org/2026/05/02/nx-s1-5807074/americans-sleep-better-hours-insomnia.
Audio for Sleep Playlist
Chapman, Bridget. “No More Silent Nights: What to Know About the Rise of Sleep Music.” Forbes.com, Forbes, 1 May 2026, https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/music-for-sleep/.
“Sleep Audio Market Research Report 2033.” Growthmarketreports.com, Growth Market Reports, https://growthmarketreports.com/report/sleep-audio-market, Accessed 5 May 2026.
 
Cigna to Exit ACA for CY 2027:
“Cigna Healthcare’s 2026 Footprint.” Cigna.com, Cigna, https://www.cigna.com/static/www-cigna-com/docs/ifp/m-26-fly-all-997206-ifp-broker-expansion-map-counties-customer-flyer.pdf, Accessed 5 May 2026.
“Cigna Shares Drop 2.5% After Announcing ACA Marketplace Exit in 2027.” Indexbox.io, Index Box, 4 May 2026, https://www.indexbox.io/blog/cigna-shares-drop-25-after-announcing-aca-marketplace-exit-in-2027/.
Minemyer, Paige, “Cigna to exit ACA market, pursue strategic alternatives for eviCore unit.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 30 Apr. 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/cigna-posts-165b-profit-q1-earnings-beat.
Bannow, Tara. “Cigna will exit ACA individual markets next year, adding to tyumult for patients.” Statnews.com, Stat+, 30 Apr. 2026, https://www.statnews.com/2026/04/30/cigna-exits-aca-market-2027-369-thousand-people-affected/.
Hilton, John. “New Cigna CEO: Insurer to exit ACA, focus on ‘relentless’ push for affordability.” Insurancenewsnet.com, Insurance News Net, 30 Apr. 2026, https://insurancenewsnet.com/innarticle/new-cigna-ceo-insurer-to-exit-aca-focus-on-relentless-push-for-affordability.
 
Resources:
5 Things About the CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule
Big Moves in Healthcare & Tech: What Insurance Agents Should Watch
CMS 2026 Prior Authorization Proposed Rule
CMS Final Rule on Fax & Snail Mail
CMS Update on BALANCE Model & Medicare GLP-1 Bridge
 
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://x.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/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

CMS Update on BALANCE Model & Medicare GLP-1 Bridge

The Friday Five for May 1, 2026:
[00:44] Staying Caffeinated on the Road
[03:26] Healthcare or Health Care? AP Stylebook Makes it Official
[05:24] Spotify Spins Fitness into the Mix
[08:41] Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026
[12:16] CMS Update on BALANCE Model & Medicare GLP-1 Bridge
 
Events & Webinars for Insurance Agents
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Staying Caffeinated on the Road:
"Dunkin' Summer Menu." dunkindonuts.com, Dunkin Donuts, "https://www.dunkindonuts.com/en/summer-menu, Accessed 29 Apr. 2026.
"Starbucks previews 2026 summer menu with tropical flavors and horchata-inspired drinks." about.starbucks.com, Starbucks, 13 Apr. 2026, https://about.starbucks.com/stories/2026/starbucks-previews-2026-summer-menu-with-tropical-flavors-and-horchata-inspired-drinks/.
 
Healthcare or Health Care? AP Stylebook Makes it Official:
Berendzen, Gerri. “AP announces stylebook changes; “healthcare” tops list.” Aceseditors.org, aces, 24 Apr. 2026, https://aceseditors.org/news/2026/ap-announces-stylebook-changes-healthcare-tops-list.
“The Associated Press Stylebook (@apstylebook) on Threads.” Threads, AP Stylebook, 25 Apr. 2026, www.threads.com/@apstylebook/post/DXhRkwYieVa?xmt=AQF09zuIUacVV6Ii9z7wDtZ9Or6W-RpmyLnA0twzfMsOKA.
 
Spotify Spins Fitness into the Mix:
“Introducing Fitness with Spotify: A New Way to Bring Movement Into Your Daily Routine.” Newsroom.spotify.com, Spotify, 27 Apr. 2026, https://newsroom.spotify.com/2026-04-27/spotify-fitness-workouts-peloton/.
O’Brien, Terrance. “Spotify is partnering with Peloton for guided workouts.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 27, Apr. 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/918861/spotify-peloton-guided-workouts.
Perez, Sarah. “Spotify’s next frontier: Fitness content.” Techcrunch.com, Tech Crunch, 27 Apr. 2026. https://techcrunch.com/2026/04/27/spotifys-next-frontier-fitness-content/.
 
Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026:
"Dr. Miller-Meeks, Congressional Doctors Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Restore Accountability in Medicare Advantage." millermeeks.house.gov, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, 22 Apr. 2026, https://millermeeks.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-miller-meeks-congressional-doctors-introduce-bipartisan-bill-restore.
Gleeson, Cailey. "Lawmakers introduce bipartisan legislation to improve access, quality of care in Medicare Advantage plans." fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare 24 Apr. 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/lawmakers-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-improve-access-quality-care-medicare.
Blake, Suzanne. "Medicare Advantage Could Change for Millions Under New Bill." newsweek.com, Newsweek, 27 Apr. 2026, https://www.newsweek.com/medicare-advantage-could-change-new-bill-11883576.
“Medicare Advantage Improvement Act of 2026.” Millermeeks.House.Gov, U.S. House of Representatives, 15 Jan. 2026, millermeeks.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/millermeeks.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/h.r-8375.pdf.
 
CMS Update on BALANCE Model & Medicare GLP-1 Bridge:
"BALANCE (Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth) Model." cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/balance, Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.
Minemyer, Paige. “CMS delays Part D GLP-1 model amid skepticism from insurers.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 22 Apr. 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/cms-delays-part-d-glp-1-model-amid-skepticism-insurersd.
Cubanski, Juliette. "CMS Extends Medicare’s Short-Term Bridge Program for GLP-1 Obesity Drug Coverage." kff.org, KFF, 23 Apr. 2026. https://www.kff.org/quick-take/cms-extends-medicares-short-term-bridge-program-for-glp-1-obesity-drug-coverage/.
"Medicare GLP-1 Bridge." cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coverage/prescription-drug-coverage/medicare-glp-1-bridge, Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.
"Status Update on the BRIDGE Demo and BALANCE Model in Part D for CY2027." sponsors.aha.org, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://sponsors.aha.org/rs/710-ZLL-651/images/20260422_Status_Update_on_the_BRIDGE_Demo_and_BALANCE_Model_in_Part_D_for_CY2027_G.pdf, Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.  
 
Resources:
Big Moves in Healthcare & Tech: What Insurance Agents Should Watch
How the BALANCE Model Will Help Medicare Part D & Medicaid Enrollees Access GLP-1s
Ready-Made Marketing for Insurance Agents: Inside the Content Library
CMS 2026 Prior Authorization Proposed Rule
5 Things About the CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule
 
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Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Big Moves in Healthcare & Tech: What Insurance Agents Should Watch

The Friday Five for April 24, 2026:
[00:25] Hits & Headlines
[01:41] New Podcast From KFF
[03:33] Tech Takeaways
[05:42] Amazon to Discontinue Older Kindles
[08:47] Amazon One Medical GLP-1 Management Program
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!  
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Hits & Headlines:
Brenninger, Kevin. "Kevin Warsh hearing takeaways: Trump Fed chair nominee defends finances, says president never demanded rate cuts." CNBC.com, CNBC, 21 Apr. 2026, https://www.cnbc.com/2026/04/21/kevin-warsh-fed-confirmation-hearing-trump-live-updates.html.  
"Meet Lucie. A New Way to Shop for Healthcare." ir.hioscar.com, Oscar Health, 20 Apr. 2026, https://ir.hioscar.com/news-events-presentations/news-press-releases/news-details/2026/Meet-Lucie--A-New-Way-to-Shop-for-Healthcare-/default.aspx.
Minemyer, Paige. "Oz previews new plan to push states toward revalidating Medicaid providers." fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 21 Apr. 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/oz-previews-plan-push-states-revalidate-medicaid-providers.
Chu, Amanda. "Oz unveils nationwide plan to tackle Medicaid fraud at POLITICO Summit" politico.com, Politico, 21 Apr. 2026, https://www.politico.com/news/2026/04/21/oz-medicaid-fraud-plan-politico-summit-00883279.
"Secretary Kennedy Appoints Casey B. Mulligan as HHS Chief Economist and Regulatory Officer." hhs.gov, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 17 Apr. 2026, https://www.hhs.gov/press-room/hhs-appoints-casey-b-mulligan-phd-as-chief-economist-and-chief-regulatory-officer.html.
Huang, Pien. "Trump nominates former Coast Guard doctor as CDC chief." npr.org, National Public Radio, 17 Apr. 2026, https://www.npr.org/2026/04/16/nx-s1-5787959/erica-schwartz-cdc-leadership-nomination.
 
New Podcast From KFF:
KFF’s The Business of Health with Chip Kahn
Why KFF is Launching a Podcast on the Business of Health
 
Tech Takeaways:
Sarnoff, Leah. "Apple CEO Tim Cook is stepping down, John Ternus set to replace him." abcnews.com, ABC News, 20 Apr. 2026, https://abcnews.com/US/apple-ceo-tim-cook-stepping-john-ternus-set/story?id=132217743.
Esposito, Filipe. "iPhone 18 Pro exclusive color reveals: Dark Cherry is the new Cosmic Orange." macworld.com, Macworld, 20 Apr. 2026, https://www.macworld.com/article/3116701/iphone-18-pro-colors-revealed-exclusive-look-at-apples-2026-models.html.
"Microsoft 365 Roadmap." Microsoft.com, Microsoft, https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/roadmap?id=560321#Roadmap, Accessed 21 Apr. 2026.
"Microsoft Teams is trying to fix accidental hand-raising." theverge.com, The Verge, 21 Apr. 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/915586/microsoft-teams-accidental-hand-raising-fix.
Roy, Dwaipayan. "Microsoft Teams will soon stop you from accidentally raising hand." newsbytesapp.com, NewsBytes, 21 Apr. 2026, https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/microsoft-teams-to-get-a-redesign-this-june/story.
"Tim Cook to become Apple Executive Chairman. John Ternus to become Apple CEO." apple.com, Apple, 20 Apr. 2026, https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/04/tim-cook-to-become-apple-executive-chairman-john-ternus-to-become-apple-ceo/.
 
Amazon to Discontinue Older Kindles:
Amazon Kindle Store
Newman, Justyn. "Amazon’s May 20 Kindle Cutoff: Which Models are Affected and How to Keep Reading Anyway." pcmag.com, PC Mag, 21 Apr. 2026, https://www.pcmag.com/news/amazon-may-20-kindle-cutoff-which-models-impacted-how-to-keep-reading.
Tyko, Kelly. "Amazon launches GLP-1 program as gaps in care emerge." axios.com, Axios, 21, Apr. 2026, https://www.axios.com/2026/04/21/amazon-pharmacy-one-medical-glp1-program.
Ashworth, Boone. "Amazon Pulls Support for Perfectly Fine Older Kindles." wired.com, Wired, 9 Apr. 2026, https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-pulls-support-for-perfectly-fine-older-kindles/.
McMahon, Liv. "Amazon to end support for older Kindles, prompting user outcry." bbc.com, BBC, 9 Apr. 2026, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c98k91yy4z4o.
Mangino, Samantha. "Don't panic: Amazon is discontinuing support on these 13 Kindle devices, but they're not totally obsolete." mashable.com, Mashable, 8 Apr. 2026, https://mashable.com/article/amazon-discontinuing-kindle-1st-gen-support.
Adorno, Jose. "Old And Unsupported Kindles Might Become The Best Tech Deal Of 2026." 15 Apr. 2026, https://www.bgr.com/2148274/why-old-kindle-deal/.
 
Amazon One Medical GLP-1 Management Program:
Amazon One Medical GLP-1 Management Program
Gomez, Brandon. "Amazon launches GLP-1 weight loss program, promising ‘fast, convenient’ access." cnbc.com, CNBC, 21 Apr. 2026, https://www.cnbc.com/2026/04/21/amazon-glp-1-weight-loss-program.html. 
Patel, Hemalee. "Amazon One Medical introduces weight management program with upfront GLP-1 medication costs." aboutamazon.com, Amazon News, https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/retail/amazon-glp1-management-program.
 
Resources:
5 Things About the CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule
CMS 2026 Prior Authorization Proposed Rule
How Insurance Agents Can Avoid Isolation & Build Stronger Connections ft. Dawn Myers
Making Cross‑Selling Less Awkward for Insurance Agents ft. Demetri Simos and Dawn Myers
Ready-Made Marketing for Insurance Agents: Inside the Content Library
 
Follow Us on Social!
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Ready-Made Marketing for Insurance Agents: Inside the Content Library

Did you know that Ritter offers turnkey content marketing materials for agents? Learn more about the Content Library: a free resource featuring compliant content created specifically for insurance agents to start, scale, and sustain digital marketing efforts.
 
Check out the Content Library for Insurance Agents!
 
Additional Resources:
Content Library: Cooking for Beginners ft. Jeff Snyder
Content Library: Mastering Medicare Insurance Coverage ft. Jeff Snyder
5 Spooky Stories for Halloween 👻
Holly Jolly Holiday Traditions
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube
Sarah on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

CMS 2026 Prior Authorization Proposed Rule

The Friday Five for April 17, 2026:
 
[00:57] CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule
[02:09] Google Announces New Chrome Features
[04:56] March 2026 CPI/2026 FOMC Calendar
[07:03] Protective Life Corporation Study on Gaps in Medicare Knowledge
[10:17] CMS 2026 Prior Authorization Proposed Rule
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule:
5 Things About the CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule 
CMS Improves Plan Transparency and Choice with 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule 
Email the show for your copy of the Final Rule PDF. (We’ve even filled out the subject line for you!)  
 
Google Announces New Chrome Features:
Tsu, Alex. “Get more done with new vertical tabs and immersive reading mode in Chrome.” Blog.google.com, The Keyword, 7 Apr. 2026, https://blog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chrome/new-chrome-productivity-features.
Pierce, David. "Vertical browser tabs are better and you should use them." Theverge.com, The Verge, 7 Apr. 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/907998/google-chrome-vertical-tabs.
 
March 2026 CPI/2026 FOMC Calendar:
“Consumer Price Index – March 2026.” Bls.gov, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 10 Apr. 2026, https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf.
“Meeting calendars, statements, and minutes (2021-2027).” Federalreserve.gov, The Federal Reserve, https://www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/fomccalendars.htm, Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
 
Protective Life Corporation Study on Gaps in Medicare Knowledge:
"Medicare planning: why it matters – and why financial professionals can’t ignore it." Protective Life Corporation, https://delivery-p102752-e1161810.adobeaemcloud.com/adobe/assets/urn:aaid:aem:e195f263-4c50-4410-8b40-f75468408f65/original/as/Protective_WP_Medical+Planning_FINAL_02092026+%283%29.pdf, Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
Bell, Allison. "Most Advisors Have Big Gaps in Medicare Knowledge: Survey." thinkadvisor.com, Think Advisor, 8 Apr. 2026, https://www.thinkadvisor.com/2026/04/08/most-advisors-have-big-gaps-in-medicare-knowledge-survey/. 
"New Research Highlights Critical Gaps in Medicare Planning and Opportunities for Financial Professionals." investor.protective.com, Protective Life Corporation, 7 Apr. 2026, https://investor.protective.com/newsroom/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/New-Research-Highlights-Critical-Gaps-in-Medicare-Planning-and-Opportunities-for-Financial-Professionals/default.aspx.
 
CMS 2026 Prior Authorization Proposed Rule:
"2026 CMS Interoperability Standards and Prior Authorization for Drugs Proposed Rule." cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 10 Apr. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2026-cms-interoperability-standards-prior-authorization-drugs-proposed-rule.
"CMS Proposes Major Reforms to Speed Up Patient Access to Drugs, Increase Transparency, and Reduce Administrative Burden." cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 10 Apr. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-proposes-major-reforms-speed-up-patient-access-drugs-increase-transparency-reduce-administrative.
"Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Interoperability Standards and Prior Authorization for Drugs for Medicare Advantage Organizations, Medicaid Managed Care Plans, State Medicaid Agencies, Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Agencies and CHIP Managed Care Entities, and Issuers of Qualified Health Plans on the Federally-Facilitated Exchanges." federalregister.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Apr. 2026, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/04/14/2026-07205/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-interoperability-standards.  
Pines, Jesse. "Prior Authorization Reform Is Here — And It Could Change How Millions Get Care." Forbes.com, Forbes, 13 Apr. 2026, https://www.forbes.com/sites/jessepines/2026/04/13/prior-authorization-reform-is-here-and-it-could-change-how-millions-get-care/. 
Minemyer, Paige. "Proposed CMS rule would set prior auth deadlines for drugs." fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 10 Apr. 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/proposed-cms-rule-would-set-prior-auth-deadlines-drugs. 
"Summary of Proposed Provisions in the 2026 CMS Interoperability Standards and Prior Authorization for Drugs Proposed Rule (CMS0062-P)." cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/summary-changes-provisions-rule-10apr26-final-508-compliant.pdf, Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
 
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Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

How Insurance Agents Can Avoid Isolation & Build Stronger Connections ft. Dawn Myers

It's easy to feel isolated in the insurance industry. But if you talk with Dawn Myers, you'll quickly understand why she says isolation is just that, a feeling. And an optional one at that. She explains how connection, collaboration, and showing up changed everything for her.
 
Find Dawn Myers Online:
LinkedIn
Stay Paid: Relationships, Referrals & The Power of Partnerships
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. 
🗓️Sign Up for Ritter Insurance Marketing Events & Webinars
 
Additional Resources:
5 Tips for New Insurance Agents
5 Tips for Seasoned Insurance Agents
Adding Spokes to Your Wheel ft. Robert Rothschild
Developing Power Habits ft. Dr. Noah St. John
How Storytelling Helps Agents Quickly Connect with Clients ft. Don Connelly
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

5 Things About the CMS 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule

CMS recently published the 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule. Don’t miss the ASG Podcast top takeaways for insurance agents.
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
5 Takeaways from the CMS 2027 Marketplace Proposed Rule
2016 vs. 2026: The Insurance Edition
CMS CRUSH Initiative
CMS Final Rule on Fax & Snail Mail
CMS Improves Plan Transparency and Choice with 2027 MA and Part D Final Rule
Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demonstration
 
References:
"2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Rate Announcement." cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 6 Apr. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2027-medicare-advantage-part-d-rate-announcement.
"Contract Year 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule." cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2 Apr. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2027-medicare-advantage-part-d-final-rule.
"Medicare Beneficiaries to See Simpler and More Flexible Plan Choices, Better Drug Coverage, Higher Quality and Lower Costs in 2027." cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2 Apr. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/medicare-beneficiaries-see-simpler-more-flexible-plan-choices-better-drug-coverage-higher-quality.
 
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Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

CMS Final Rule on Fax & Snail Mail

The Friday Five for March 27th:
Macbook Neo & WWDC26
Gas Buddy for Fuel Savings
The Great Nee-Doh Shortage
KFF State Health Facts Resource
CMS Final Rule on Fax & Snail Mail
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Macbook Neo & WWDC26:
“Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference returns the week of June 8.” Apple.com, Apple, 23 Mar. 2026, https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/03/apples-worldwide-developers-conference-returns-the-week-of-june-8/.
“WWDC26” developer.apple.com, Apple Developer, https://developer.apple.com/, Accessed 24 Mar. 2026.
 
Gas Buddy for Fuel Savings:
Apple Store
Google Play
Official Website
 
The Great Nee-Doh Shortage:
Official Website
 
KFF State Health Facts Resource:
“Custom State Report Builder.” Kff.org, KFF, https://www.kff.org/state-health-facts/custom/, Accessed 24 Mar. 2026.
“State Health Facts.” Kff.org, KFF, https://www.kff.org/state-health-facts/, Accessed 24 Mar. 2026.
 
CMS Administrative Simplification Final Rule:
“Administrative Simplification; Adoption of Standards for Health Care Claims Attachments Transactions and Electronic Signatures Final Rule CMS-0053-F.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 20 Mar. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/administrative-simplification-adoption-standards-health-care-claims-attachments-transactions.
“Administrative Simplification; Adoption of Standards for Health Care Claims Attachments Transactions and Electronic Signatures Proposed Rule.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/24/2026-05676/administrative-simplification-adoption-of-standards-for-health-care-claims-attachments-transactions, Accessed 24 Mar. 2026.
“CMS Rule Phases Out Fax Machines, Snail Mail to Save Taxpayers $781.98 Million a Year.” cms.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 20 Mar. 2026, https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-rule-phases-out-fax-machines-snail-mail-save-taxpayers-781-98-million-year.
 
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Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  and Bluesky, https://bsky.app/profile/sarahjrueppel.bsky.social
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Microsoft Announces Copilot Health

The Friday Five for March 20, 2026:
Rueppel Recommends
Audible launches Standard Plan
Universal Health Services to Acquire Talkspace
Manufacturer Participation in CMS 2028 Medicare Drug Price Negotiation
Microsoft Announces Copilot Health
 
Get Connected:
🤝Register with Ritter Insurance Marketing – the FMO that powers the Agent Survival Guide Podcast!
📧Connect with the Ritter Insurance Marketing Sales Team Near You!
💌Send feedback, questions, and topic suggestions to ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Rueppel Recommends:
The Death of Social Media and the Rise of Interest Media
Minemyer, Paige. “The feds will overpay Medicare Advantage plans by $76B this year, MedPAC estimates.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 13 Mar 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/feds-will-overpay-medicare-advantage-plans-76b-year-medpac-estimates.
Minemyer, Page. “Joint Economic Committee report: Medicare Advantage overpayments drive up Part B premiums.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 13 Mar 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/joint-economic-committee-report-medicare-advantage-overpayments-drive-part-b-premiums.
“Medicare Payment Policy March 2026.” Medpac.Gov, Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, Mar. 2026, www.medpac.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Mar26_MedPAC_Report_To_Congress_SEC.pdf.
“The Part B Premium PassThrough: Medicare Advantage Overpayments Inflate Premiums for All.” Jec.Senate.Gov, Join Economic Committee, 10 Mar. 2026, www.jec.senate.gov/public/vendor/_accounts/JEC-R/issue-briefs/The%20Part%20B%20Premium%20Pass-Through.pdf.
 
Audible launches Standard Plan:
“Audible Membership Plans & Pricing.” Audible.Com, Audible, www.audible.com/ep/memberbenefits. Accessed 17 Mar. 2026.
Davies, Rowan. "Audible launches a cheaper audiobook tier that’s perfect for entry-level listeners as Spotify continues to hike prices — here’s what you get with the new $9 plan." Techradar.com, Tech Radar, 4 Mar. 2026, https://www.techradar.com/audio/audiobooks/audible-launches-a-cheaper-audiobook-tier-thats-perfect-for-entry-level-listeners-as-spotify-continues-to-hike-prices-heres-what-you-get-with-the-new-usd9-plan.
Bonk, Lawrence. "Audible's new plan is $9 a month and still includes an audiobook." Engadget.com, Engadget, 3 Mar. 2026, https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/audibles-new-plan-is-9-a-month-and-still-includes-an-audiobook-credit-174641878.html.
Mehrotra, Pranob. "Audible’s new Standard plan makes it easy to enjoy audiobooks for less." Digitaltrends.com, Digital Trends, 3 Mar. 2026, https://www.digitaltrends.com/movies/audibles-new-standard-plan-makes-it-easy-to-enjoy-audiobooks-for-less/.
 
Universal Health Services to Acquire Talkspace:
“Universal Health Services, Inc. to Acquire Talkspace, Inc.” Uhs.Com, Universal Health Services, Inc., 9 Mar. 2026, uhs.com/news/universal-health-services-inc-to-acquire-talkspace-inc/.
Gliadkovskaya, Anastassia, and Dave Muoio. “Universal Health Services to Acquire Talkspace in $835M Deal to Build out Virtual Behavioral Health.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 9 Mar. 2026, www.fiercehealthcare.com/finance/uhs-acquire-talkspace-estimated-835-million-transaction.
 
Manufacturer Participation in CMS 2028 Medicare Drug Price Negotiation
CMS Announces 2028 Maximum Fair Prices for 15 New Medicare-Negotiated Drugs Under Part B & D
“CMS Announces Manufacturer Participation in Third Cycle of Medicare Drug Price Negotiation.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 13 Mar. 2026, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/cms-announces-manufacturer-participation-third-cycle-medicare-drug-price-negotiation.
CMS Announces Part D Savings & 2026 Maximum Fair Prices for First 10 Medicare-Negotiated Drugs
CMS Announces Part D Savings & 2027 Maximum Fair Prices for 15 New Medicare-Negotiated Drugs
Cubanski, Juliette, and Tricia Neuman. “Key Facts About Medicare Drug Price Negotiation.” Kff.Org, KFF, 11 Mar. 2026, www.kff.org/medicare/key-facts-about-medicare-drug-price-negotiation/.
“Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program: Selected Drugs for Initial Price Applicability Year 2028.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/factsheet-medicare-negotiation-selected-drug-list-ipay-2028.pdf. Accessed 18 Mar. 2026.
 
Microsoft Announces Copilot Health:
“Introducing Copilot Health.” Mcrosoft.Ai, Microsoft, 12 Mar. 2026, microsoft.ai/news/introducing-copilot-health/.
Bonifield, Stevie. “Microsoft’s Copilot Health can connect to your medical records and wearables.” Theverge.com, The Verge, 12 Mar. 2026, https://www.theverge.com/tech/893594/microsoft-copilot-health-launch.
Landi, Heather. “Microsoft unveils Copilot Health as an AI health companion for consumers.” Fiercehealthcare.com, Fierce Healthcare, 12 Mar. 2026, https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/ai-and-machine-learning/microsoft-unveils-copilot-health-ai-health-companion-consumers.
 
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