CMS Draft Legislation for CY 2026

 
The Friday Five for January 17, 2025:
TikTok Ban & Popular Alternatives
Part D Cost-Sharing
Successor Regulation Rules
Creditable Coverage Determination
MA and Part D Advance Notice
 
TikTok Ban & Rising Alternatives:
“A Possible Tiktok Ban Is Just Days Away. A List of Other Apps Available.” Apnews.Com, AP News, 14 Jan. 2025, apnews.com/article/tiktok-alternative-social-media-platforms-ban-49af1bfd2a1543a09b327544c380f217.
Rosenblatt, Kalhan. “Chinese TikTok Alternative RedNote Tops App Charts Ahead of Potential TikTok Ban.” NBCNews.Com, NBCUniversal News Group, 14 Jan. 2025, www.nbcnews.com/tech/social-media/rednote-chinese-tiktok-alternative-tops-app-charts-ahead-ban-rcna187497.
Habeshian, Sareen. “Tiktok Ban Timeline: Here’s Where Things Stand.” Axios.Com, Axios, 13 Jan. 2025, www.axios.com/2025/01/13/tiktok-ban-timeline.
“TikTok Prepares for US Shutdown from Sunday, Sources Say.” Reuters.Com, Reuters, 15 Jan. 2025, www.reuters.com/technology/tiktok-preparing-us-shut-off-sunday-information-reports-2025-01-15/.
 
CMS Draft CY 2026 Part D Redesign Program:
“CMS Releases Proposed 2026 Payment Policy Updates for Medicare Advantage and Part D Programs.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 10 Jan. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-releases-proposed-2026-payment-policy-updates-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-programs.
“Draft CY 2026 Part D Redesign Program Instructions Fact Sheet.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 10 Jan. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/draft-cy-2026-part-d-redesign-program-instructions-fact-sheet.
“Draft CY 2026 Part D Redesign Program Instructions.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/draft-cy-2026-part-d-redesign-program-instructions.pdf. Accessed 14 Jan. 2025
“Final CY 2025 Part D Redesign Program Instructions.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 10 Jan. 2025, www.cms.gov/files/document/final-cy-2025-part-d-redesign-program-instructions.pdf.
 
CMS 2026 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Advance Notice:
“2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D Advance Notice Fact Sheet.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.cms.gov/files/document/2025-advance-notice-fact-sheet-and-faq.pdf. Accessed 14 Jan. 2025.
“2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D Rate Announcement.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 1 Apr. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2025-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-rate-announcement.
“2026 Medicare Advantage and Part D Advance Notice Fact Sheet.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 10 Jan. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/2026-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-advance-notice-fact-sheet.
“Advance Notice of Methodological Changes for Calendar Year (CY) 2026 for Medicare Advantage (MA) Capitation Rates and Part C and Part D Payment Policies.” Cms.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 10 Jan. 2025, www.cms.gov/files/document/2026-advance-notice.pdf.
Goldman, Maya. “Biden Proposes $21B Pay Increase for MA Insurers.” Axios.Com, Axios, 13 Jan. 2025, www.axios.com/2025/01/13/biden-proposes-insurer-pay-increase .
Pifer, Rebecca. “CMS Revised Medicare Advantage Star Ratings. Here’s Which Payers Benefited.” Healthcaredive.Com, Healthcare Dive, 9 July 2024, www.healthcaredive.com/news/cms-revised-medicare-advantage-star-ratings-plan-scores/720697/.
 
Resources:
2025 ACA Enrollment Updates: https://lnk.to/asgf20250110
CMS Announces Part D Savings & 2026 Maximum Fair Prices for First 10 Medicare-Negotiated Drugs: https://lnk.to/BkBrUZ 
How to Find Balance Between Life & Work: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-to-find-balance-between-life-and-work/
Instagram Basics for Insurance Agents: https://lnk.to/asg634  
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/
Top 5 Apps of 2024: https://lnk.to/QkLB8T
Why Gen Z is a Good Fit for Selling Insurance: https://lnk.to/asg640
 
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.

2025 ACA Enrollment Updates

 
 
January 10, 2025:
Sarah’s 2025 Goals
Highlights from CES 2025
First HIPAA Update Since 2013
ACA DACA Enrollment Eligibility Update
2025 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #2
 
Sarah’s 2025 Goals:
Cement City: https://www.cementcity.org/
 
Highlights from CES 2025:
Carlson, Jeff. “CES 2025: We’re Obsessed With These 28 New Products So Far.” CNET.Com, CNET, 9 Jan. 2025, www.cnet.com/pictures/ces-2025-were-obsessed-with-these-28-new-products-so-far/.
Kastrenakes, Jacob. “CES 2025: All the News, Gadgets, and Surprises.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 4 Jan. 2025, www.theverge.com/2025/1/4/24307731/ces-2025-tvs-gaming-smart-home-wearables-news.
Halliday AI Glasses: https://hallidayglobal.com/products/reservation 
Ortiz, Sabrina. “Halliday Just Unveiled the AI Glasses That Meta, Google and Apple Have Been Trying to Build.” ZDNET.Com, ZDNET, 8 Jan. 2025, www.zdnet.com/article/halliday-just-unveiled-the-ai-glasses-that-meta-google-and-apple-have-been-trying-to-build/.
Mirumi: https://mirumi.ux-xu.com/
Segway Navimov X3 Series: https://navimow.segway.com/uk/product/navimow-x.html
Stolyar, Brenda. “The 31 Best Gadgets From CES 2025 You Can Buy Right Now.” Wired.Com, Conde Nast, 9 Jan. 2025, www.wired.com/story/the-gadgets-from-ces-2025-you-can-buy-right-now/.
Weatherbed, Jess. “These Smart Glasses Have a Tiny Little Screen Hidden in the Frame.” Theverge.Com, The Verge, 6 Jan. 2025, www.theverge.com/2025/1/5/24334030/halliday-smart-glasses-ai-tiny-display-frame-availability-price-ces.
 
First HIPAA Update Since 2013:
Olsen, Emily. “HHS Proposes HIPAA Update to Boost Healthcare Cybersecurity.” Healthcaredive.Com, Healthcare Dive, 3 Jan. 2025, www.healthcaredive.com/news/hhs-hipaa-security-rule-update-cybersecurity/736451/.
Beavins, Emma. “HHS Proposes New Cybersecurity Requirements as First Major HIPAA Update in 10 Years.” Fiercehealthcare.Com, Fierce Healthcare, 7 Jan. 2025, www.fiercehealthcare.com/regulatory/hhs-proposes-cybersecurity-updates-healthcare-organizations.
“HIPAA Security Rule To Strengthen the Cybersecurity of Electronic Protected Health Information.” Federalregister.Gov, Federal Register, 6 Jan. 2025, www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/06/2024-30983/hipaa-security-rule-to-strengthen-the-cybersecurity-of-electronic-protected-health-information.
 
ACA DACA Enrollment Eligibility Update:
“DACA Eligibility Update.” Khbe.Ky.Gov, Kynect Health Coverage, khbe.ky.gov/Agents-kynectors/Documents/kynector-FAQ.pdf. Accessed 9 Jan. 2025.
“HHS Final Rule Clarifying the Eligibility of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Recipients and Certain Other Noncitizens.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 3 May 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/hhs-final-rule-clarifying-eligibility-deferred-action-childhood-arrivals-daca-recipients-and-certain.
“Immigration Status to Qualify for the Marketplace.” HealthCare.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.healthcare.gov/immigrants/immigration-status/. Accessed 9 Jan. 2025.
“Kansas et al. v. United States of America et Al..” Litigationtracker.Law.Georgetown.Edu, Georgetown University, 2 Jan. 2025, litigationtracker.law.georgetown.edu/litigation/kansas-et-al-v-united-states-of-america-et-al/.
Pillair, Drishti, and Samantha Artiga. “Overview and Implications of the ACA Marketplace Expansion to DACA Recipients.” KFF.Org, KFF, 6 Jan. 2025, www.kff.org/racial-equity-and-health-policy/issue-brief/overview-and-implications-of-the-aca-marketplace-expansion-to-daca-recipients/.
“Recent Court Decisions Impacting the Marketplace.” HealthCare.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, www.healthcare.gov/court-decisions/. Accessed 9 Jan. 2025.
“State-Based Marketplaces: 2025 Open Enrollment.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 17 Oct. 2024, www.cms.gov/files/document/state-exchange-oe-chart-py-2025.pdf.
“State Health Insurance Marketplace Types, 2025.” KFF.Org, KFF, 26 Oct. 2024, www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/state-indicator/state-health-insurance-marketplace-types/.
“State of Kansas, et al. Appellees v. United States of America and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Appellants.” Litigationtracker.Law.Georgetown.Edu, Georgetown University, litigationtracker.law.georgetown.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Kansas_2024.12.16_ORDER.pdf. Accessed 9 Jan. 2025.
 
2025 ACA Enrollment Snapshot #2:
“Marketplace 2024 Open Enrollment Period Report: Final National Snapshot.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 24 Jan. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2024-open-enrollment-period-report-final-national-snapshot.
“Marketplace 2025 Open Enrollment Period Report: National Snapshot.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 8 Jan. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/marketplace-2025-open-enrollment-period-report-national-snapshot-1.
“Nearly 24 Million Consumers Have Selected Affordable Health Coverage in ACA Marketplace, With Time Left to Enroll.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 8 Jan. 2025, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nearly-24-million-consumers-have-selected-affordable-health-coverage-aca-marketplace-time-left.
 
Resources:
5 Tips for Finding Supplemental Coverage for ACA Plans: https://lnk.to/xDtALf
Lessons Learned in 2024: https://lnk.to/asg637
Marketing Trends for 2025: https://lnk.to/asg639
Setting SMART Goals in 2025: https://lnk.to/asgf20250103
Why Gen Z is a Good Fit for Selling Insurance: https://lnk.to/asg640
 
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/
 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Setting SMART Goals in 2025

 
No resolutions, just goals! Join Sarah as she explains how to set SMART goals for your insurance business in 2025.
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
5 Business Podcasts to Follow: https://pod.fo/e/2921db
5 Things from the CMS 2026 MA and Part D Proposed Rule: https://pod.fo/e/28c9d2             
Instagram Basics for Insurance Agents: https://pod.fo/e/28803f
 
References:
Alexander, Lucy. “How I Write SMART Goals and Make Them a Reality.” Blog.Hubspot.Com, HubSpot Blog, 26 July 2024, blog.hubspot.com/marketing/how-to-write-a-smart-goal-template.
Dan Harris, Ph.D. “How to Make Your SMART Goals Even SMARTER.” Quantumworkplace.Com, Quantum Workplace, www.quantumworkplace.com/podcast/how-to-make-your-smart-goals-even-smarter. Accessed 9 Dec. 2024.
“How to Set Goals for 2025.” AFP, Association for Financial Professionals, 20 Nov. 2024, www.afponline.org/training-resources/resources/articles/Details/how-to-set-goals-for-2025.
Boogaard, Kat. “How to Write Smart Goals (with Examples).” Atlassian.Com, Atlassian, 12 Sept. 2024, www.atlassian.com/blog/productivity/how-to-write-smart-goals.
Bell, Simon. “SMART Goals.” Edited by Cat McLeod, Mindtools.Com, MindTools, www.mindtools.com/a4wo118/smart-goals. Accessed 9 Dec. 2024.
“The SMARTER Method To Help You Define and Manage Your Business Goals.” Solocom, Solocom, solocom.ca/en/smarter-method/. Accessed 9 Dec. 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/
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

Top 5 Episodes of 2024

 
Join Sarah as she counts down the top 5 Agent Survival Guide Podcast episodes of 2024! Find out if your favorite episode made the cut… and thanks for listening this year!
 
Number Five: [02:22]
Number Four: [21:29]
Number Three: [31:18]
Number Two: [39:18]
Number One: [01:04:19]
 
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/
 
Links to Individual Episodes:
5 Perks of Being a Part-Time Insurance Agent: https://pod.fo/e/28ab20
Agent’s Guide to Email Communication Resources: https://pod.fo/e/28ab27
Developing a Retention Mindset ft. Blake Amos: https://pod.fo/e/28ab52
Key Changes for ACA Open Enrollment 2025 ft. Ross Baker: https://pod.fo/e/28aaeb
Using a SWOT Analysis to Review Your Insurance Business: https://pod.fo/e/28ab7f
 
Additional Episodes You Might Like:
5 Things About Prepping for the Insurance License Exam: https://pod.fo/e/28ab2c
9 Essential Tools for Beginner Insurance Agents: https://pod.fo/e/28ab2e
How Much Can Agents Make Selling Under-65 Insurance: https://pod.fo/e/28aaf7
Simplify Marketplace Enrollments with HealthSherpa: https://pod.fo/e/27a351
Steps to Get Ready for OEP: Federal & State Exchanges: https://pod.fo/e/28aaf6
What Today's Financial Environment Means for Medicare Beneficiaries & Agents: https://pod.fo/e/28aafb
 
Resources for Insurance Agents:
Developing an Agency — Your Guide to Getting Started: https://www.ritterim.com/agency-guide/
Email Template for Client Check-in: https://ritterim.com/documents/client-check-in-email-template.docx
FMO vs. IMO vs. NMO vs. MGA vs. GA: What’s the Difference? https://ritterim.com/blog/fmo-vs-imo-vs-nmo-vs-mga-vs-ga-whats-the-difference/
How Professional Organizations Make You a Better Agent: https://ritterim.com/blog/how-professional-organizations-make-you-a-better-agent/
Increase Sales and Productivity with the Busy Medicare Agent’s Sales Planner: https://www.ritterim.com/blog/increase-sales-and-productivity-with-the-busy-medicare-agents-sales-planner/
Modern Medicare Marketing for Today's Agents: https://www.ritterim.com/modern-marketing-guide/
Request a Portfolio Review from Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://ritterim.com/portfolio/
Ritter Agent Handbook: https://docs.ritterim.com/documents/compliance/Ritter-Agent-Handbook-2024.pdf
Ritter Insurance Marketing Official Site: https://ritterim.com/
Stay Organized with the Busy ACA Agent’s Sales Calendar: https://www.ritterim.com/blog/stay-organized-with-the-busy-aca-agents-sales-calendar/
The Complete Guide to Client Loyalty and Retention: https://ritterim.com/client-retention-guide/
The Complete Guide to Selling Affordable Care Act Insurance Plans: https://ritterim.com/aca-ebook/
The Ultimate Agent Resource List Pt. 1: Market Yourself: https://www.ritterim.com/blog/the-ultimate-agent-resource-list-pt.-1-market-yourself/
Your Step-By-Step Guide to Getting Started in Insurance Sales: https://ritterim.com/free-guide/?utm_source=asg_podcast_link
 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
 
The resources in Agent's Guide to Email Communication Reesources are the opinions of staff and agents who work with Ritter Insurance Marketing. We cannot guarantee that an agent’s business will succeed if utilizing these recommendations. An agents is solely responsible for making all decisions and taking actions related to their business.

5 Holiday Podcast Recommendations

 
 
Celebrate the upcoming Ho-Ho-Holidays with these podcast recommendations! Sarah has picks that will keep you in a jolly, festive mood as you make your preparations.
 
Mentioned in this Episode:
Nicked: Official Site | Apple | Spotify 
Scrooge: A Christmas Carol Podcast: Official Site | Apple | Spotify 
The Nutcracker Podcast: Official Site | Apple | Spotify 
‘Tis the Grinch Holiday Podcast: Apple | Spotify | Wondery 
Welcome to Tinsel Town: Apple | Spotify 
 
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/ 
 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency. 

ASG Podcast Holiday Gift Guide

 
Join Sarah and Tina as they chat about their favorite gifts to give during this festive (and busy!) time of year. Consider this your survival guide for holiday gift-giving!
 
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:
Alter Eco Foods: https://www.alterecofoods.com/  
Penzeys Spices: https://www.penzeys.com/  
Torchbearer Sauces: https://www.torchbearersauces.com/  
Unreal Snacks: https://unrealsnacks.com/
 
Other episodes you might like:
Best Mobile Group Games! https://pod.fo/e/28b5ed  
Instagram Basics for Insurance Agents: https://pod.fo/e/28803f   
Top Holiday Toys of 2024: https://pod.fo/e/287dd6  
 
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. 

5 Things from the CMS 2026 MA and Part D Proposed Rule

 
This week, join Sarah as she takes a closer look at 5 provisions from the CMS 2026 MA and Part D Proposed Rule.
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
Best Mobile Group Games! https://pod.fo/e/28b5ed
Instagram Basics for Insurance Agents: https://pod.fo/e/28803f
The Power of Listening & Laughter: https://pod.fo/e/2870fa
 
References:
“Contract Year 2026 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program, Medicare Cost Plan Program, and Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (CMS-4208-P).” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 26 Nov. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-medicare-advantage-program-medicare-prescription.
“Medicare and Medicaid Programs: Contract Year 2026 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program, Medicare Cost Plan Program, and Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly.” FederalRegister.Gov, Federal Register, www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2024-27939/medicare-and-medicaid-programs-contract-year-2026-policy-and-technical-changes-to-the-medicare. Accessed 4 Dec. 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/
 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

KFF 2025 Medicare Advantage Spotlight

 
The Friday Five for November 22, 2024:
Bluesky Lists & Starter Packs
Missing Apple Notes Solution
KFF Updated FAQs on Medicare Drug Price Negotiation
New Section 1115 Demonstrations for Medicaid & CHIP
KFF 2025 Medicare Advantage Spotlight
 
Bluesky Lists & Starter Packs:
“Bluesky Start Packs - Bluesky Directory.” Blueskydirectory.Com, Bluesky Directory, blueskydirectory.com/starter-packs/all. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.
Cooper, Gael. “Bluesky Explained: Why This Social Media Network Has 20 Million Users and Is Growing.” CNET.Com, CNET, 19 Nov. 2024, https://www.cnet.com/tech/bluesky-explained-why-this-social-media-network-is-now-growing-by-1-million-users-daily/.
Isaac, Mike. “How Bluesky, Alternative to X and Facebook, Is Handling Explosive Growth.” Nytimes.Com, The New York Times, 17 Nov. 2024, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/17/technology/bluesky-growing-pains.html.
Cunningham, Joel. “This Is the Best Way to Find People to Follow on Bluesky.” Lifehacker.Com, Lifehacker, 19 Nov. 2024, lifehacker.com/tech/best-way-to-find-people-to-follow-on-bluesky.
Cappelli, Amanda. “What Is Bluesky, the Online Platform Welcoming Users Leaving Elon Musk’s X?” CBS News, CBS Interactive, 17 Nov. 2024, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/what-is-bluesky-why-are-people-leaving-x-platform/.
 
Missing Apple Notes Solution:
Christoffel, Ryan. “Apple Confirms Fix for Disappearing Notes after iCloud Terms Issue.” 9to5Mac.Com, 9to5Mac, 18 Nov. 2024, 9to5mac.com/2024/11/18/apple-confirms-fix-for-disappearing-notes-after-icloud-terms-issue/.
Phelan, David. “Apple Confirms iPhone Missing Notes Bug And Shows How To Fix It.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 18 Nov. 2024, www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2024/11/17/apple-confirms-iphone-missing-notes-bug-and-shows-how-to-fix-it-iphone-16-pro-max-icloud-data/.
Smith, Chris. “This Is Apple’s Official Fix for the Bug That Makes Notes Disappear in iOS 18.” BGR.Com, BGR, 19 Nov. 2024, bgr.com/tech/apple-official-fix-for-the-ios-18-disappearing-notes-bug/.
 
KFF Updated FAQs on Medicare Drug Price Negotiation:
Cubanski, Juliette. “FAQs about the Inflation Reduction Act’s Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program.” KFF.Org, KFF, 19 Nov. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/faqs-about-the-inflation-reduction-acts-medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program/.
 
New Section 1115 Demonstrations for Medicaid & CHIP:
“About Section 1115 Demonstrations.” Medicaid.Gov, Medicaid, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/about-section-1115-demonstrations/index.html. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.
“Biden-Harris Administration Announces Approvals in Five States That Will Keep Eligible Children and Adults Enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP.” CMS.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-announces-approvals-five-states-will-keep-eligible-children-and-adults .
“Colorado Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/co-continuum-dmnstrtn-aprvl-11142024.pdf.
“Hawaii Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/hi-quest-integr-dmnstrtn-aprvl-11142024.pdf.
“Minnesota Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/mn-pmap-dmnstrtn-aprvl-11142024.pdf.
“New York Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/ny-medicaid-rdsgn-team-dmnstrtn-appvl-11142024.pdf.
“Pennsylvania Section 1115 Demonstration Amendment.” Medicaid.Gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 14 Nov. 2024, www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demonstrations/downloads/pa-former-foster-care-youth-diff-state-sud-dmnstrtn-appvl-11142024.pdf.
 
KFF 2025 Medicare Advantage Spotlight:
Freed, Meredith, Jeannie Fuglesten Biniek, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2025 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Offerings.” KFF.Org, KFF, 15 Nov. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/medicare-advantage-2025-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-offerings/.
Freed, Meredith, Jeannie Fuglesten Biniek, et al. “Medicare Advantage 2025 Spotlight: A First Look at Plan Premiums and Benefits.” KFF.Org, KFF, 15 Nov. 2024, www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/medicare-advantage-2025-spotlight-a-first-look-at-plan-premiums-and-benefits/.
 
Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.
 
Resources:
5 Ways to Generate ACA Leads: https://pod.fo/e/28139a
7 Reasons Clients Switch Medicare Plans During AEP: https://pod.fo/e/284479
Halfway Through AEP 2025: https://pod.fo/e/2830c1  
Ritter Staff’s Top 5 Apps: https://pod.fo/e/28515e 
VA Benefits, Tricare for Life, and Medicare for Veteran Clients: https://pod.fo/e/281399
You're Not Alone This AEP!: https://pod.fo/e/27d8f4
 
 
Follow Us on Social!
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance    
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel 
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.

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://pod.fo/e/28139a
2025 Medicare Part A and B Premiums and Deductibles: https://pod.fo/e/282829
Apps to Stay Productive This AEP! https://pod.fo/e/27ed22
Halfway Through AEP: Reflect & Renew Your Medicare Sales Strategies: https://pod.fo/e/282828  
How Ask Integrity Can Streamline Your Medicare Sales Appointments: https://pod.fo/e/27a354 
How to Check Medicare Extra Help Eligibility for Your Client: https://pod.fo/e/282827 
KFF 2025 ACA Open Enrollment Report & Tools: https://pod.fo/e/27f7a6 
Staying Motivated Amidst Change & Disruption: https://pod.fo/e/28aaec  
You're Not Alone This AEP! https://pod.fo/e/27d8f4
 
Follow Us on Social! 
Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance    
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel 
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/
 
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
 

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
 
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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/
 
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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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/

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
 
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance    
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel 
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/

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.
 
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Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance    
Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel 
Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/