Halfway Through AEP 2025

 
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://link.chtbl.com/ASG6287
2025 Medicare Part A and B Premiums and Deductibles: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGN20241113
Apps to Stay Productive This AEP! https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA20241106
Halfway Through AEP: Reflect & Renew Your Medicare Sales Strategies: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG630
How Ask Integrity Can Streamline Your Medicare Sales Appointments: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG6255
How to Check Medicare Extra Help Eligibility for Your Client: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG630R5
How to Survive AEP: Wellness Tips for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG553
KFF 2025 ACA Open Enrollment Report & Tools: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20241108
Staying Motivated Amidst Change & Disruption: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGM20240710
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.
 

KFF 2025 ACA Open Enrollment Report & Tools

 
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.

Apple Intelligence iOS 18.1 Features

 
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.

Medigap Deductibles and OOP Costs for 2025

 
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
 
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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/

KFF 2025 Medicare Part D Snapshot Report

 
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/
 
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/

CMS Announces Medicare $2 Drug List Model RFI

 
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
 
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/

2025 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Premiums

 
The Friday Five for October 4, 2024:
KFF Study on Medicare Beneficiaries’ Tendency to Shop
Ritter’s First Annual ACA Summit
Agent Reaction to MedicareCENTER & Upcoming Webinar
Instagram Best Practices & New Pro Dashboard Features
2025 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Premiums
 
KFF Study on Medicare Beneficiaries’ Tendency to Shop:
Ochieng, Nancy, et al. “Nearly 7 in 10 Medicare Beneficiaries Did Not Compare Plans during Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period.” KFF, KFF, 27 Sept. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/nearly-7-in-10-medicare-beneficiaries-did-not-compare-plans-during-medicares-open-enrollment-period/.
 
Ritter’s First Annual ACA Summit:
Register to Attend the Inaugural ACA Summit
 
Agent Reaction to MedicareCENTER & Upcoming Webinar:
Learn more about MedicareCENTER: https://integrity.com/medicarecenter/
Register to Attend: Sales Tech Train & Talk - Understanding MedicareCENTER
 
Instagram Best Practices & New Pro Dashboard Features:
“About the Instagram Professional Dashboard.” Help.Instagram.Com, Instagram, help.instagram.com/257516379077270. Accessed 3 Oct. 2024.
“How Can I Check My Account Type on Instagram?” SocialBu Help, SocialBu, help.socialbu.com/article/331-how-can-i-check-my-account-type-on-instagram. Accessed 3 Oct. 2024.
Sato, Mia. “Instagram’s ‘Best Practices’ Tell Creators How They Should Post.” The Verge, The Verge, 1 Oct. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/10/1/24259462/instagram-best-practices-business-profiles-tips-reach.
“Introducing Best Practices, an Education Hub for Creators on Instagram.” Abaout.Fb.Com, Meta, 30 Sept. 2024, about.fb.com/news/2024/10/best-practices-education-hub-creators-instagram/.
“Instagram Creator Education: Best Practices.” Instagram for Creators, Instagram, creators.instagram.com/best-practices#instagram. Accessed 3 Oct. 2024.
Instagram Creators Account, Meta, www.instagram.com/creators/. Accessed 3 Oct. 2024.
 
2025 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Premiums:
“Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Programs to Remain Stable as CMS Implements Improvements to the Programs in 2025.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 27 Sept. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/medicare-advantage-and-medicare-prescription-drug-programs-remain-stable-cms-implements-improvements.
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/.
“Medicare Enrollment for June 2024.” Data.CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Data, data.cms.gov/tools/medicare-enrollment-dashboard. Accessed 2 Oct. 2024.
“Medicare Monthly Enrollment.” Data.CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Data, data.cms.gov/summary-statistics-on-beneficiary-enrollment/medicare-and-medicaid-reports/medicare-monthly-enrollment. Accessed 2 Oct. 2024.
 
Resources:
4 Ways PlanEnroll Will Make This Your Best AEP Yet: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG617R5
Best Video Editing Apps for Social Media: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA69
Get Your Medicare Advantage Sales Contracts Here — Recommendations for 2025: https://ritterim.com/blog/get-your-medicare-advantage-sales-contracts-here-recommendations-for-2025/
Prescription Drugs Your Medicare Clients Could See Lower Coinsurances for in 2024: https://ritterim.com/blog/prescription-drugs-your-medicare-clients-could-see-lower-coinsurances-for-in-2024/
Tech News Roundup: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240927
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
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/

Tech News Roundup

 
 
The Friday Five for September 27, 2024:
The Ritter Report & Ask Integrity Shoppers
Spotify AI Playlists in Beta for U.S. Premium Accounts
Hands-On with Apple iPhone 16 Pro
Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Update & New Frames
Self-Care Tips for Agents During AEP
 
The Ritter Report & Ask Integrity Shoppers:
Learn about Ask Integrity™: https://integrity.com/ask-integrity/ 
Learn more about PlanEnroll: https://ritterim.com/planenroll/
MedicareCENTER: https://integrity.com/medicarecenter/
Not partnered with Integrity? Register here: https://identity.integrity.com/register
Register for The Ritter Report Call: https://bit.ly/4dltNfa
 
Spotify AI Playlists in Beta for U.S. Premium Accounts:
“Ai Playlist Is Rolling out in Beta in the US, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand-Get Started with These pro Tips.” Spotify, Spotify, 24 Sept. 2024, newsroom.spotify.com/2024-09-24/ai-playlist-expanding-usa-canada-ireland-new-zealand/.
Shanklin, Will. “Spotify’s AI Playlists Are Rolling out for Premium Users in the US.” Engadget, Engadget, 24 Sept. 2024, www.engadget.com/ai/spotifys-ai-playlists-are-now-available-for-premium-users-in-the-us-130008423.html.
Weatherbed, Jess. “Spotify’s AI Playlist Builder Is Now Available in the US.” The Verge, The Verge, 24 Sept. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/9/24/24252971/spotify-ai-playlist-builder-beta-available-us-canada.
 
Hands-On with Apple iPhone 16 Pro:
“iPhone - Compare Models.” Apple, Apple, www.apple.com/iphone/compare/?modelList=iphone-16-pro-max%2Ciphone-14-pro-max. Accessed 25 Sept. 2024.
“iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.” Apple, Apple, www.apple.com/iphone-16-pro/. Accessed 25 Sept. 2024.
 
Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Update & New Frames:
“Discover Ray-Ban | Meta Smart Glasses: Specs & Features | Ray-Ban® US.” Ray-Ban.Com, Ray-Ban, www.ray-ban.com/usa/discover-ray-ban-meta-smart-glasses/clp. Accessed 26 Sept. 2024.
“Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses.” Meta, MEta, www.meta.com/smart-glasses. Accessed 26 Sept. 2024.
Shakir, Umar. “The Biggest News from Meta Connect 2024.” The Verge, The Verge, 25 Sept. 2024, www.theverge.com/24254101/meta-connect-2024-announcements-products.
 
Rueppel Recommends:
ComicBook. “Disney+: Every Movie and TV Show Arriving in October 2024.” Comicbook.Com, Comicbook.com, 19 Sept. 2024, comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/disney-plus-streaming-movies-tv-shows-new-october/#18.
Ridgely, Charlie. “Everything Coming to Hulu in October 2024.” Comicbook.Com, Comicbook.com, 22 Sept. 2024, comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/hulu-streaming-october-2024-new-movies-tv-shows/#20.
Ridgely, Charlie. “Netflix: Every Movie and TV Show Arriving in October 2024.” Comicbook.Com, Comicbook.com, 25 Sept. 2024, comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/netflix-october-2024-new-movies-tv-shows-streaming/.
“Scamanda.” Apple Podcasts, Lionsgate Sound, podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scamanda/id1685691481. Accessed 26 Sept. 2024.
“Scamanda.” Spotify, Lionsgate Sound, open.spotify.com/show/3UNxeZPD5fDSzm26mqTjgc. Accessed 26 Sept. 2024.
 
Resources:
4 Ways PlanEnroll Will Make This Your Best AEP Yet: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG617R5
Apps for Tracking Business Expenses: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGA67
Are You Self-Sabotaging Your Insurance Sales Success? https://link.chtbl.com/ASG616
Ask ASG Mailbag: Send Us Your Questions: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240920
What Today's Financial Environment Means for Medicare Beneficiaries & Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG618
 
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/

Ask ASG Mailbag: Send Us Your Questions

 
The Friday Five for September 20, 2024:
AEP Countdown & Ask Integrity Shoppers
FOMC September 2024 Meeting
New Features From iOS 18 Release
Instagram Teen Account Changes
Ask ASG Mailbag: Send Us Your Questions
 
Ask ASG Mailbag: Send Your Insurance Marketing & Sales Questions to ASGPodcast@RitterIM.com
 
AEP Countdown & Ask Integrity Shoppers:
Learn about Ask Integrity™: https://integrity.com/ask-integrity/  
Learn more about PlanEnroll: https://ritterim.com/planenroll/
MedicareCENTER: https://integrity.com/medicarecenter/
Not partnered with Integrity? Register here: https://identity.integrity.com/register
 
FOMC September 2024 Meeting:
“Consumer Price Index - August 2024.” BLS.Gov, U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics, 11 Sept. 2024, www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf.
“Employment Situation Summary - 2024 M08 Results.” BLS.Gov, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 Sept. 2024, www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm.
Mercado, Darla. “Fed Blog Recap: Chair Jerome Powell Defends Central Bank’s Decision to Go Big with First Cut.” CNBC, CNBC, 18 Sept. 2024, www.cnbc.com/2024/09/18/fed-meeting-live-updates-traders-await-september-interest-rate-cut.html.
“Federal Reserve Issues FOMC Statement.” FederalReserve.Gov, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, 18 Sept. 2024, www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20240918a.htm.
Mena, Bryan, et al. “First Fed Rate Cut since Covid.” CNN, Cable News Network, 18 Sept. 2024, www.cnn.com/business/live-news/federal-reserve-interest-rate-09-18-24/index.html.
“Meeting Calendars and Information.” FederalReserve.Gov, The Federal Reserve, www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/fomccalendars.htm. Accessed 18 September 2024.
“Personal Income and Outlays, July 2024.” BEA.Gov, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), 30 Aug. 2024, www.bea.gov/news/2024/personal-income-and-outlays-july-2024.
 
New Features from iOS 18 Release:
Nield, David. “How to Use Apple’s Distraction Control Feature in Safari.” Wired, Conde Nast, 6 Sept. 2024, www.wired.com/story/how-to-use-safari-distraction-control-feature/.
“iOS 18: Get Rid of Website Distractions in Safari.” MacRumors.Com, MacRumors, 16 Sept. 2024, www.macrumors.com/how-to/ios-18-get-rid-of-website-distractions-in-safari/.
“iOS 18 Is Available Today, Making iPhone More Personal and Capable than Ever.” Apple.Com, Apple, 16 Sept. 2024, www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/09/ios-18-is-available-today-making-iphone-more-personal-and-capable-than-ever/.
“Watchos 11 Is Available Today.” Apple.Com, Apple Newsroom, 18 Sept. 2024, www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/09/watchos-11-is-available-today/.
 
Instagram Teen Account Changes:
Roth, Emma. “Instagram Is Putting Every Teen into a More Private and Restrictive New Account.” Verge.Com, The Verge, 17 Sept. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/9/17/24246423/instagram-teen-account-private-restrictive.
“Instagram’s New Privacy Protections for Minors Could Hamper App’s Ads Biz.” Thedrum.Com, The Drum, 17 Sept. 2024, www.thedrum.com/news/2024/09/17/instagram-s-new-privacy-protections-minors-could-hamper-the-app-s-ads-biz-experts.
Ortutay, Barbara. “Instagram Makes Teen Accounts Private as Pressure Mounts on the App to Protect Children.” AP News, Associated Press, 17 Sept. 2024, apnews.com/article/instagram-meta-teen-accounts-kids-425a05cc37f81b6ff2b7439d3884c54a.
“Introducing Instagram Teen Accounts: Built-in Protections for Teens, Peace of Mind for Parents.” About.Fb.Com, Meta, 17 Sept. 2024, about.fb.com/news/2024/09/instagram-teen-accounts/.
“New Protections to Give Teens More Age-Appropriate Experiences on Our Apps.” About.Fb.Com, Meta, 11 Jan. 2024, about.fb.com/news/2024/01/teen-protections-age-appropriate-experiences-on-our-apps/.
 
Ask ASG Mailbag:
Send Your Insurance Marketing & Sales Questions to ASGPodcast@RitterIM.com
 
Resources:
4 Ways PlanEnroll Will Make This Your Best AEP Yet: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG617R5
How to Keep Clients Safe from Insurance Fraud: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG619
Organization Tips and Tricks for the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period: https://ritterim.com/blog/organization-tips-and-tricks-for-the-medicare-annual-enrollment-period/   
The Hidden Value of Selling Medicare Supplements During AEP: https://ritterim.com/blog/the-hidden-value-of-selling-medicare-supplements-during-aep/
What Today's Financial Environment Means for Medicare Beneficiaries & Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG618
 
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/

The Lead-Up to AEP 2025

 
The Friday Five for September 6, 2024:
Countdown to AEP 2025
How to get ‘Contract Now’ access
Apple Podcasts on the web
More new features from Instagram
2nd Round of Ritter Summits
 
Countdown to AEP 2025:
2025 Medicare Market Disruption Information: https://ritterim.com/follow-medicare-changes/
 
How to get ‘Contract Now’ access:
Contract faster online with ‘Contract Now’: https://ritterim.com/the-ritter-platform/#contract-now
List of Ritter Sales Specialists: https://ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team/
 
Apple Podcasts on the web:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/browse
Cridland, James. “Apple Podcasts Is Now on the Web... and Android.” Podnews, Podnews, 20 Aug. 2024, podnews.net/update/apple-podcasts-web-2.
Forristal, Lauren. “Apple Podcasts Launches on the Web.” TechCrunch, TechCrunch, 19 Aug. 2024, techcrunch.com/2024/08/19/apple-podcasts-on-web-browser/.
Mayo, Benjamin. “Apple Podcasts Launches Web App, Listen to Your up next Queue and Library in a Browser.” 9to5Mac, 9to5Mac, 19 Aug. 2024, 9to5mac.com/2024/08/19/apple-podcasts-web-app/.
Peters, Jay. “Apple Podcasts Now Has a Web App.” The Verge, The Verge, 19 Aug. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/8/19/24223811/apple-podcasts-web-app.
ASG Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/agent-survival-guide-podcast/id1310637866
Bouvard, Pierre. “YouTube’s Growth as a Podcast Power Player Revealed in Cumulus Media and Signal Hill Insights’ Podcast Download – Spring 2024 Report.” Westwood One, Westwood One, 8 July 2024, www.westwoodone.com/blog/2024/07/08/youtubes-growth-as-a-podcast-power-player-revealed-in-cumulus-media-and-signal-hill-insights-podcast-download-spring-2024-report/.
 
More new features from Instagram:
Forristal, Lauren. “As More Instagram Users Engage with Stories, the App Adds a Comments Feature.” TechCrunch, TechCrunch, 3 Sept. 2024, techcrunch.com/2024/09/03/instagram-stories-public-comments-feature/.
Peters, Jay. “Instagram Adds What Photos Have Always Needed: Words.” The Verge, The Verge, 27 Aug. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/8/27/24228983/instagram-photos-text-editor-stickers.
Connellan, Shannon. “Instagram Now Lets You Add Words on Posts like Reels.” Mashable, Mashable, 28 Aug. 2024, mashable.com/article/instagram-words.
Clover, Juli. “Instagram Now Supports Adding Text and Stickers to Photos.” MacRumors, MacRumors, 27 Aug. 2024, www.macrumors.com/2024/08/27/instagram-text-stickers-photos/.
 
2nd Round of Ritter Summits:
Register for Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits: https://summits.ritterim.com/
 
Resources:
5 Must-Haves for Every Agent During AEP 2025: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240830
Are You Self-Sabotaging Your Insurance Sales Success? https://link.chtbl.com/ASG616
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
FAQs About the Medicare Call Recording Requirements: https://ritterim.com/blog/faqs-about-the-medicare-call-recording-requirements/
How Insurance Agents Can Use Stories to Sell Insurance: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG613
How to Create a Google Business Profile: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG614
How to Get Your Medicare Enrollment Kits on Time: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-to-get-your-medicare-enrollment-kits-on-time/
 
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/

5 Must-Haves for Every Agent During AEP 2025

 
 
Are these essentials part of your strategy for this Annual Enrollment Period? They should be! Listen as we highlight how agents can simplify marketing and enrollment efforts for AEP 2025.
 
Read the text version
 
Register for your MedicareCENTER account: https://identity.medicarecenter.com/register
 
Resources: 
5 Tips to Make the Most of AEP: https://ritterim.com/blog/5-tips-to-make-the-most-of-aep/ 
9 Essential Tools for Beginner Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG595
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
Digital Marketing for Insurance Agents: Our Top Tips to Boost Business: https://ritterim.com/blog/digital-marketing-for-insurance-agents-our-top-tips-to-boost-business/
Download the Guide - Modern Medicare Marketing for Today's Agents: https://ritterim.com/modern-marketing-guide/
Get Your PlanEnroll Site: https://ritterim.com/planenroll/
Learn More About Integrity Tools: https://ritterim.com/integrity-tools/
The Survivor's AEP Checklist: https://ritterim.com/blog/the-survivors-aep-checklist/
What Are Agents Responsible for Under HIPAA? https://ritterim.com/blog/what-are-agents-responsible-for-under-hipaa/
 
References:
Lankford, Kimberly. “What Caregivers Should Know about Medicare Coverage.” AARP, American Association of Retired Persons, 5 June 2024, www.aarp.org/health/medicare-insurance/info-2024/medicare-caregiving-support.html.
 
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/

CMS Announces First 10 Part D Negotiated Drug Prices

 
The Friday Five for August 23, 2024:
Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits Next Week
Instagram Testing Rectangular Profile Grid
FTC Ban on Noncompete Agreements Overturned
"Time is Money" Initiative from Biden-Harris Administration
CMS Announces First 10 Part D Negotiated Drug Prices
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Register for Ritter Insurance Marketing Annual Summits: https://summits.ritterim.com/
 
Instagram Testing Rectangular Profile Grid:
Hutchinson, Andrew. “Instagram Chief Flags Coming Changes to Profile Grid Displays.” Social Media Today, Social Media Today, 18 Aug. 2024, www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-chief-flags-coming-changes-profile-grid-displays/724532/.
Moon, Mariella. “Instagram’s Experimental Profile Grid Has Rectangular Images Instead of Squares.” Engadget, Engadget, 17 Aug. 2024, www.engadget.com/social-media/instagrams-experimental-profile-grid-has-rectangular-images-instead-of-squares-160007086.html.
Mishra, Prakruti. “Instagram Explores Vertical Profile Grid in Shift from Classic Squares.” Business Standard, Business Standard, 19 Aug. 2024, www.business-standard.com/technology/tech-news/instagram-explores-vertical-profile-grid-in-shift-from-classic-squares-124081900317_1.html.
Peters, Jay. “Instagram Is Testing Vertical Profile Grids - and Knows That Might Mess up Layouts.” The Verge, The Verge, 16 Aug. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/8/16/24222022/instagram-vertical-profile-grids-mess-up-layouts.
 
FTC Ban on Noncompete Agreements Overturned:
“FTC’s Bid to Ban Noncompete Agreements Rejected by Federal Judge in Texas.” Dallas News, 21 Aug. 2024, www.dallasnews.com/news/2024/08/21/ftcs-bid-to-ban-noncompete-agreements-rejected-by-federal-judge-in-texas/.
Freedman, Robert. “FTC Exceeded Its Authority with Noncompete Ban, Judge Says.” Legal Dive, Legal Dive, 21 Aug. 2024, www.legaldive.com/news/ftc-exceeded-authority-noncompete-ban-judge-ada-brown/724871/.
Stoddart, Michelle, and Elizabeth Schulze. “FTC Ban on Worker Noncompete Agreements Blocked by Federal Judge.” ABC News, ABC News Network, 20 Aug. 2024, abcnews.go.com/Politics/federal-trade-commissions-ban-worker-noncompete-agreements-blocked/story?id=113001832.
Hsu, Andrea. “Federal Judge Throws out U.S. Ban on Noncompetes.” NPR, NPR, 21 Aug. 2024, www.npr.org/2024/08/21/g-s1-18376/federal-judge-tosses-ftc-noncompetes-ban.
Weatherbed, Jess. “The FTC’s Noncompete Agreements Ban Is Blocked.” The Verge, The Verge, 21 Aug. 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/8/21/24225112/ftc-noncompete-agreement-ban-blocked-judge.
 
“Time is Money” Initiative from Biden-Harris Administration:
“Biden-Harris Administration Announces Broad New Actions to Protect Consumers from Billions in Junk Fees.” The White House, The United States Government, 11 Oct. 2023, www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/10/11/biden-harris-administration-announces-broad-new-actions-to-protect-consumers-from-billions-in-junk-fees/.
Haslett, Cheyenne. “Canceling Subscriptions Should Be as Easy as Signing up, Newly Proposed Federal Rule Says.” ABC News, ABC News Network, 12 Aug. 2024, abcnews.go.com/Politics/canceling-subscriptions-easy-signing-new-federal-rule/story?id=112724977.
“Fact Sheet: Biden-Harris Administration Launches New Effort to Crack down on Everyday Headaches and Hassles That Waste Americans’ Time and Money.” The White House, The United States Government, 13 Aug. 2024, www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/08/12/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-launches-new-effort-to-crack-down-on-everyday-headaches-and-hassles-that-waste-americans-time-and-money/.
Rosalsky, Greg. “The White House Plan to Stop Companies from Wasting Our Time.” NPR, NPR, 20 Aug. 2024, www.npr.org/sections/planet-money/2024/08/19/g-s1-17604/the-white-house-plan-to-stop-companies-from-wasting-our-time.
 
CMS Announces First Part D Negotiated Drug Prices:
“Factsheet: Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Aug. 2023, www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-medicare-selected-drug-negotiation-list-ipay-2026.pdf.
“Fact Sheets Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program: Negotiated Prices for Initial Price Applicability Year 2026.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 15 Aug. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program-negotiated-prices-initial-price-applicability-year-2026.
“HHS Selects the First Drugs for Medicare Drug Price Negotiation.” HHS.Gov, Department of Health & Human Services, 8 Feb. 2024, www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/08/29/hhs-selects-the-first-drugs-for-medicare-drug-price-negotiation.html.
“Negotiating for Lower Drug Prices Works, Saves Billions.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 15 Aug. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/negotiating-lower-drug-prices-works-saves-billions.
 
Resources:
2025 Maximum Broker Commissions for Medicare Advantage & Medicare Part D Update: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGN20240808
CMS Announces Part D Savings & 2026 Maximum Fair Prices for First 10 Medicare-Negotiated Drugs: https://ritterim.com/blog/cms-announces-part-d-savings-and-2026-maximum-fair-prices-for-first-10-medicare-negotiated-drugs/
How Insurance Agents Can Use Stories to Sell Insurance: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG613
LinkedIn Basics for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG612
Supreme Court Overrules Chevron Deference: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240705
 
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/

5 Takeaways from the 2024 Global Leadership Summit

 
Join Sarah as she recaps what she learned at the 2024 Global Leadership Summit.
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Mentioned in this episode:
Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast: Official | Apple | Spotify | YouTube
Global Leadership Summit: https://globalleadership.org/summit/
Kindra Hall Storytelling Books: https://www.kindrahall.com/books
Moriah Smallbone Official Website: https://www.moriahofficial.com/
Mind Shift with Erwin & Aaron McManus: Apple | Spotify | YouTube
The Seven Frequencies of Communication: https://www.thesevenfrequencies.com/
 
Resources:
Best Practices for Training Downline Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG589
Developing an Agency: Your Guide to Getting Started: https://ritterim.com/agency-guide/
How to Be an Adaptable Insurance Agent: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG582
How to Recruit Agents to Your Downline in 2024: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG588
The Best Books for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG590
 
References:
“7 Workplace Personality Tests That Can Help Improve Your Team.” LinkedIn, LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/business/talent/blog/learning-and-development/workplace-personality-tests-that-can-improve-your-team. Accessed 13 Aug. 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/

CMS Changes to ACA Plan Switching Process

 
The Friday Five for August 2, 2024:
Target Denim Take Back Event
New Maps and Waze Updates from Google
Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle Now Available
FOMC July 2024 Meeting
CMS Changes to ACA Plan Switching Process 
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Target Denim Take Back Event:
Garlin, Shannon. “Target Announces a Limited-Time Denim Trade-in Program - How to Save.” TODAY.Com, TODAY, 29 July 2024, www.today.com/shop/target-denim-take-back-event-savings-rcna164033.
“Target Announces First Official Denim Take Back Event, Offering 20% off New Styles in Exchange for Previously-Worn Denim.” Target, Target, 29 July 2024, corporate.target.com/press/release/2024/07/target-announces-first-official-denim-take-back-event,-offering-20-off-new-styles-in-exchange-for-p.
Bregel, Sarah. “Target Will Give You Coupons If You Swap Your Old Jeans for Its Own Denim Styles.” FastCompany.Com, Fast Company, 29 July 2024, www.fastcompany.com/91164305/target-back-to-school-shopping-coupons-discounts-sales-denim-trade-in.
 
New Maps and Waze Updates from Google:
Shakir, Umar. “Google Maps Is Getting Even More like Waze.” The Verge, The Verge, 31 July 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/7/31/24209969/google-maps-destination-guidance-waze-camera-events.
Sorrentino, Mike. “Google Maps, Waze Make It Easier to Report Crashes, Cameras and Slowdowns.” CNET, CNET, 31 July 2024, www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/google-maps-waze-make-it-easier-to-report-crashes-cameras-and-slowdowns/.
Fielding, Sarah. “Google Maps Will Show You Where to Enter Your Destination.” Engadget, Engadget, 31 July 2024, www.engadget.com/google-maps-will-show-you-where-to-enter-your-destination-130021496.html.
Li, Abner. “New Google Maps Incident Reporting Comes to Mobile & Android Auto, Waze Gets Lockscreen Navigation.” 9to5Google, 9to5Google, 31 July 2024, 9to5google.com/2024/07/31/google-maps-incident-reporting/.
 
Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle Now Available:
“Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle.” Disney+, Disney+, www.disneyplus.com/welcome/disney-hulu-max-bundle. Accessed 31 July 2024.
“Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle.” Hulu, Hulu, www.hulu.com/disney-hulu-max-bundle. Accessed 31 July 2024.
“Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle.” Max Help Center, Max, help.max.com/us/Answer/Detail/000002578. Accessed 31 July 2024.
Manfredi, Lucas. “How to Change Your Plan to the Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle as an Existing Subscriber.” TheWrap, The Wrap, 25 July 2024, www.thewrap.com/disney-hulu-max-bundle-how-to-change-plan/.
Weatherbed, Jess. “The Disney Plus, Hulu, and Max Streaming Bundle Is Now Available.” The Verge, The Verge, 25 July 2024, www.theverge.com/2024/7/25/24205865/disney-plus-hulu-max-streaming-bundle-price-availability.
 
FOMC July 2024 Meeting:
“Consumer Price Index - June 2024.” Bls.Gov, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 11 July 2024, www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf.
Cox, Jeff. “Fed Holds Rates Steady and Notes Progress on Inflation.” CNBC, CNBC, 31 July 2024, www.cnbc.com/2024/07/31/fed-rate-decision-july-2024.html.
Curran, Enda. “Fed Meeting Today: Live Analysis on Interest Rates, Powell Speech.” Edited by Michael Arnold and Chris Anstey, Bloomberg.Com, Bloomberg, 31 July 2024, www.bloomberg.com/news/live-blog/2024-07-31/fomc-rate-decision-and-fed-chair-news-conference.
Smialek, Jeanna. “Fed Opens Door to September Rates Cut If Inflation Stays Cool.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 31 July 2024, www.nytimes.com/2024/07/31/business/economy/fed-meeting-interest-rates.html.
Guida, Victoria. “Fed Poised to Cut Rates, Ignoring Trump and GOP Lawmakers.” Politico, Politico, 31 July 2024, www.politico.com/news/2024/07/31/fed-interest-rate-cuts-trump-republican-backlash-00171918.
“Meeting Calendars and Information.” FederalReserve.Gov, The Federal Reserve, www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/fomccalendars.htm. Accessed 31 July 2024.
“Personal Income and Outlays, June 2024.” Bea.Gov, Bureau of Economic Analysis, 26 July 2024, www.bea.gov/news/2024/personal-income-and-outlays-june-2024.
 
CMS Changes to ACA Plan Switching Process:
Appleby, Julie. “Biden Administration Tightens Broker Access to Healthcare.Gov to Thwart Rogue Sign-Ups.” Fierce Healthcare, KFF Health News, 22 July 2024, www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/biden-administration-tightens-broker-access-healthcaregov-thwart-rogue-sign-ups.
“CMS Statement on Agent and Broker Marketplace Activity.” CMS.Gov Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 12 Apr. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-statement-agent-and-broker-marketplace-activity.
“CMS Statement on Agent and Broker Marketplace Activity, Update.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 6 May 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-statement-agent-and-broker-marketplace-activity-update.
“CMS Statement on System Changes to Stop Unauthorized Agent and Broker Marketplace Activity.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 19 July 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-statement-system-changes-stop-unauthorized-agent-and-broker-marketplace-activity.
 
Resources:
5 Things About the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240726
Agent's Guide to Phone Communication Resources: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG608
Agent's Guide to Social Media Communication Resources: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG606
Events & Webinars for Insurance Agents: https://ritterim.com/events/
Facebook Basics for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG607
How Agents Can Protect Clients from Unauthorized ACA Plan Switching: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-agents-can-protect-clients-from-unauthorized-aca-plan-switching/
Marketplace Call Center: 1-800-318-2596
Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits 2024: https://link.chtbl.com/ASDF20240719
Signs It's Time to Expand Your Insurance Portfolio & Make the Move! https://link.chtbl.com/ASG605
 
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5 Things About the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan

 
Join Sarah for a special Friday Five episode all about the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan. Find out what insurance agents need to know – including how to get client-facing marketing materials that detail the Inflation Reduction Act changes coming to Medicare Part D in 2025.
 
Interested in the marketing materials Sarah mentioned during this episode?
Contact our sales team at Ritter Insurance Marketing at https://www.ritterim.com/meet-your-sales-team
Email the podcast at ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com
Call our hotline and leave a voicemail at 1-717-562-7211
Learn more about MedicareCENTER at https://integrity.com/medicarecenter/
 
Resources:
5 FAQs About the Shop & Enroll Phaseout: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240712
Agent's Guide to Social Media Communication Resources: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG606
Facebook Basics for Insurance Agents: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG607
Medicare Advantage & Part D Certification Info: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGN20240715
Preparing Clients for the New Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Program: https://ritterim.com/blog/preparing-clients-for-the-new-medicare-prescription-payment-plan-program/
Ritter Insurance Marketing Summits 2024: https://link.chtbl.com/ASDF20240719
The Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage Determination Changes for 2025 or Beyond: https://ritterim.com/blog/the-medicare-part-d-creditable-coverage-determination-changes-for-2025-or-beyond/
 
References:
“The Biden-Harris Administration Releases Final Part Two Guidance to Help People with Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Manage Prescription Drug Costs.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 16 July 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-releases-final-part-two-guidance-help-people-medicare-prescription-drug
“Biden-Harris Administration Issues Final Guidance to Help People with Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Manage Prescription Drug Costs.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 29 Feb. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-issues-final-guidance-help-people-medicare-prescription-drug-coverage
“CMS Issues Additional Guidance on Program to Allow People with Medicare to Pay Out-of-Pocket Prescription Drug Costs in Monthly Payments.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 15 Feb. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-issues-additional-guidance-program-allow-people-medicare-pay-out-pocket-prescription-drug-costs
“CMS Issues Draft Guidance on New Program to Allow People with Medicare to Pay Out-of-Pocket Prescription Drug Costs in Monthly Payments.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 21 Aug. 2023, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-issues-draft-guidance-new-program-allow-people-medicare-pay-out-pocket-prescription-drug-costs
“CMS National Training Program Live Events.” CMS National Training Program, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, cmsnationaltrainingprogram.cms.gov/live-events Accessed 25 July 2024.
“Fact Sheets Draft CY 2025 Part D Redesign Program Instructions Fact Sheet.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 31 Jan. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/draft-cy-2025-part-d-redesign-program-instructions-fact-sheet
“Fact Sheet: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-fact-sheet.pdf Accessed 25 July 2024.
“Fact Sheet: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Final Part One Guidance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-medicare-prescription-payment-plan-final-part-one-guidance.pdf Accessed 25 July 2024.
“Fact Sheet: Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Final Part Two Guidance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-medicare-prescription-payment-plan-final-part-two-guidance.pdf Accessed 25 July 2024.
“Inflation Reduction Act and Medicare.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/inflation-reduction-act-and-medicare Accessed 25 July 2024.
“Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Implementation Timeline.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 1 July 2024, www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-timeline.pdf
Seshamani, Meena. “Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Draft Part Two ...” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 15 Feb. 2024, www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-draft-part-two-guidance.pdf  
Seshamani, Meena. “Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Part 1 Guidance.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 21 Aug. 2023, www.cms.gov/files/document/medicare-prescription-payment-plan-part-1-guidance.pdf  
 
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