Advocate Health University
My mission is to provide agents with industry educational tools, resources, and best practices that will enable them to establish, grow, and retain their Medicare membership.
Alissa Morris
Advocate Health University Director
Advocate Health University
Advocate Health University was created - to help licensed insurance agents establish, grow, and retain their books of business! Our goal is to take our years of combined experience from our Regional Managers, leaders, and experienced professional agents and agency partners and share best practices and strategies. Here at Advocate Health, we like to say that you are in business for yourself, but not by yourself. Our training program is interactive and relevant, keeping you up to date on the always-changing Medicare landscape and compliance rules, as well as providing you with best practices for marketing and lead generation!
Advocate Health University provides a venue to work together, learn from each other, and make connections. Whether you are brand new to Medicare or an experienced seller, Advocate Health University has something for agents at every stage in their Medicare business!
Introduction to Advocate Health University
Advocate Health University is committed to providing agents with educational material for successful sales and client retention, continuing education and up to date news and resources from different carriers.
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Recruiting Meetings
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Videos
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Calendar
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Social Media sites
AU Blog
Unlocking the Benefits of the EPIC Program
As local and licensed Agents in New York State, staying ahead of the curve with the latest programs and benefits is crucial to building and retaining a robust book of business (BOB). One such program that offers immense value to your portfolio is the Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program. This state-run initiative is designed to help Medicare eligible folks manage their prescription drug costs, making it an essential addition for Agents looking to enhance their service offerings and secure long-term client relationships.
Navigating the EPIC Program: Positives, Challenges, and How to Maximize Benefits for Your Clients
As a local and licensed Agent in New York State, understanding and effectively utilizing the Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program can significantly enhance your service offerings. While EPIC offers numerous benefits, it's also important to be aware of potential challenges and how to address them. This knowledge will not only help you retain your book of business (BOB) but also attract new Beneficiaries by demonstrating your expertise and commitment to their well-being.
Turning 65 and New to Medicare: Your Essential Guide to Navigating the Transition
Turning 65 is a significant milestone, and one of the key aspects of this transition is becoming eligible for Medicare. Navigating the complexities of Medicare can be daunting, but with the right information and guidance, you can make informed decisions that best suit your healthcare needs. At Advocate Health Advisors, we are dedicated to helping you understand Medicare and its benefits, ensuring you receive the coverage you deserve.
Maximizing Healthcare: Coordinating Medicare and VA Benefits for Veterans
As a Veteran, you’ve earned access to both Medicare and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, two powerful resources that, when coordinated together, can provide comprehensive healthcare coverage. Understanding how to navigate and coordinate these benefits can be a game-changer, ensuring you receive the best possible care while minimizing out-of-pocket costs. At Advocate Health Advisors, we’re here to help you make the most of these valuable benefits.
Understanding Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (DSNPs): A Guide for Beneficiaries
Navigating the complexities of healthcare can be challenging, especially for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (DSNPs) are designed to simplify this process and provide comprehensive coverage tailored to your unique needs. At Advocate Health Advisors, we aim to help you understand DSNPs and how they can enhance your healthcare experience.
Navigating Medicare Marketing Rules for 2025: A Guide for Agents
As we approach the 2025 plan year, it is crucial for Medicare Agents to stay informed about the latest Medicare marketing rules. Adhering to these regulations ensures compliance and builds trust with Beneficiaries. At Advocate Health Advisors, we are committed to supporting our Agents with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed. This blog will provide a comprehensive overview of the Medicare marketing rules for 2025, helping you navigate these guidelines effectively.
Navigating the 2025 DSNP Changes: Strategies for Agents
The upcoming changes to Dual Special Needs Plans (DSNPs) in 2025, introduced by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), bring both challenges and opportunities for Agents. As these changes come into effect, it's crucial to understand their implications and adopt strategies to retain and expand your book of business. This blog will explore the key changes, their impacts, and how you can navigate this evolving landscape.
Moving and Have Medicare: What You Need to Know
Relocating can be an exciting yet challenging time, especially for Medicare beneficiaries. Moving to a new state or even within the same state can impact your Medicare coverage. At Advocate Health Advisors, we aim to educate and support our beneficiaries through every life transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you need to know if you are moving and have Medicare.
The Importance of Selling Ancillary Products: A Comprehensive Guide
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, offering comprehensive solutions to clients is more important than ever. At Advocate Health Advisors, we understand that ancillary products play a crucial role in providing holistic coverage for Medicare Beneficiaries. This blog aims to highlight the importance of selling ancillary products, helping Agents understand their benefits and how to effectively incorporate them into their offerings. We are dedicated to supporting Agents with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed.
Understanding Medicaid and Extra Help: A Guide for Medicare Beneficiaries
Navigating the complexities of healthcare can be challenging, especially for Medicare Beneficiaries who may qualify for additional assistance through programs like Medicaid and Extra Help. At Advocate Health Advisors, we aim to empower our Agents with the knowledge needed to support their clients effectively. This blog will provide a comprehensive overview of Medicaid and Extra Help, helping you understand how these programs work and how they can benefit Medicare Beneficiaries.
Understanding the Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on Medicare Beneficiaries
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) represents a significant shift in federal policy, with widespread implications for various sectors, including healthcare. As we navigate these changes, it is crucial to understand how this legislation affects Medicare-eligible beneficiaries. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the positive and negative impacts of the IRA on Medicare recipients, ensuring that our agents are well-informed and prepared to support their clients effectively.
AHIP 2025 Test Tips: Your Guide to Success
The AHIP (America’s Health Insurance Plans) certification is a critical credential for Agents selling Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. As the 2025 AHIP test approaches, we at Advocate Health Advisors want to ensure you are well-prepared to succeed. We are dedicated to supporting Agents with the resources and expertise needed to excel. Here are some essential tips to help you ace the AHIP 2025 test.
Understanding 2025 SEPs: Focus on LIS No Longer Being Quarterly
The landscape of Medicare is constantly evolving, and it is essential for Agents to stay informed about the latest changes to better serve their clients. One significant change for the 2025 plan year is the modification of Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) concerning the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), also known as Extra Help. At Advocate Health Advisors, we aim to provide you with the information you need to navigate these changes effectively. This blog will focus on the new rules for SEPs and the impact of LIS no longer being quarterly.
CMS Announces 2025 Agent Commission Rates
CMS has issued the Agent and Broker Compensation Rates for 2025!
CMS Proposed Rules for 2025
CMS has released it's proposed rules for Medicare marketing & compensation for 2025, and it could have serious effects on agents and FMO's
CMS Announces 2024 MA/MAPD/PDP Agent/Broker Commission Rates
CMS has issued the Agent and Broker Compensation Rates for 2024. As in the past 5 years or so, the commission rate has increased! For a new-to-Medicare sale, the national commission will be $611!
CMS Final Marketing Rules for 2024
On April 12, 2023, CMS issued their updated Final Marketing Rules for the 2024 contract year. Here is our summary of those rules that affect agents, sales and marketing
Link to CMS Final Rule for contract year 2024
CMS issued their final rule regarding marketing for 2024
Senators are continuing to push for new regulations around the Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) industry.
Dr. Darwin Hale, CEO of Advocate Health Advisors shares his thoughts, stating “PBM regulations are going to be a top priority for lawmakers and for federal agencies in general. Both parties obviously have strong opinions and objectives, but they agree on drug pricing and oversite. There's renewed focus on PBMs because they are an intermediary and because price transparency isn't quite where Congress would like it.”
Deadline Extension for Original Medicare Enrollment & Disenrollment
Due to ongoing phone issues in 2022 with Social Security - poor call quality, dropped calls and long wait times - they are granting "equitable relief" in the form of extended time to enroll/disenroll from original Medicare.
2022 Medicare Communications & Marketing Guidelines (MCMG)
CMS releases updated version of the MCMG for 2022
Agent Marketing: Urgent Compliance Alert
On October 8th, CMS issued guidance regarding third-party marketing that you should be aware of.
2022 MA and PDP Star Ratings Are Here!
CMS Releases 2022 Medicare Advantage and Part D Star Ratings to Help Medicare Beneficiaries Compare Plans
Welcome to PreAEP
Welcome to pre-AEP for the 2021 season. Advocate Health Advisors is here to support you in any way we can--don't hesitate to reach out!
2022 MAPD Broker Compensation announced!
Agents - great news! CMS has announced the proposed commission rates for MAPD & PDP plans for 2022 and once again, commissions are increasing!
It's 2022 MAPD Certification & Recertification time!
Alright ladies and gentlemen, it's that time again — time to get certified or recertify.