How can I select the right healthcare company and representative to work with?
Answered by 65 licensed agents
Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 30, 2025
Agent Licensed in AZ & UT
Answered by Gary Church on September 14, 2025
Broker Licensed in Ca, AZ, NV & TX
Hi, thanks for watching. The question is, how can you select the right healthcare company and representative to work with? Well, there's only one way to do it in my eyes. You need to find an independent Medicare advisor or broker that only does Medicare. The reason for that is you can't be an expert at everything. You have to kind of pick your lane and get really good at it. As far as the right healthcare provider, that is something you need to talk to your advisor about. There's a lot of companies and a lot of different options and a lot of ways to go. So lean on them for their expertise, make sure they're independent, and make sure they only do Medicare.
Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer on July 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ & CA
On the Health plan you should look at many Factors
1) look at thr Star ratings of the Plan, I would pick a plan that has less than 3 stars with Cms
The star ratings tell you if the plan has adequate benefits, and provides good client service
2) Make sure you Know the difference between an Advantage plan and traditional Medicare with
A Medi gap plan, There is a huge positive to Traditional Medicare.
3) How long has the plan been in business in your area, Stay away from New plans with less than 3 years in the market you are in.
4) Never answer a tele marketing call about medicare, only call a trusted advisor
5) on an Advantage plan, make sure you call your doctors and ask them what Hmo, & Ppo plans they accept and check on the plans formulary.
6) only use an independent Advisor, who works for you and not the insurance company, that way you get the plan that will work for you
7) make sure your advisor does a needs assessment, and not just pitch you plans he wants to sell
8) Make sure you are dealing with a seasoned advisor who has at least 5 + years in the business
9) Ask the advisor for references from their clients
10) Do not answer random calls, its illegal for someone to call you without you 1st requesting the call
Answered by Mike Alexander on November 3, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AR & 16 other states
Answered by Mark Bilgere on December 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK
I have been a licensed agent since 1995.
I have owned a property & casualty agency. I soon discovered I did not want to be a general insurance sales. I had started writing Life and Medicare. In 1998. Sold my P&C agency for a profit.
Then I worked full time with UnitedHealth care. In 2000 I went to work with HealthSpring as a manager of 15 agents.
In 2018. I took retirement. In 2019 I wanted to work and started Daniel Brechin Agency. I have grown to 500+ clients. I work with 7 major Medicare plans, Included with BCBSAL, Healthspring, UnitedHealth Care, and Devoted.
I help retire with Annuities and represent 3 major companies
Daniel Brechin
Contact me.
Answered by Daniel Brechin on August 25, 2025
Agent Licensed in AL, FL, KY, MS & TN
Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown on April 24, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, AL, CO & 10 other states
Answered by Terri Reagin on August 5, 2025
Broker Licensed in OK, AR, CO & 6 other states
Medicare sometimes makes big changes as do Part D Drug plans and/or Medicare Advantage Plams: such as networks, formularies, cost sharing, deductibles, etc. I have met many clients who made the mistake of getting insurance over the phone (Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, Life insurance, etc) and later learned they did not have what they were told they were buying over the phone.
Good, old-fashioned face-to-face, is the best way to negotiate your retirement planning. Do not think your children are too busy to sit with you and the agent, make time for everyone. That may mean an evening or Saturday appointment with your insurance agent and children.
Unfortunately, when a senior falls sick with strokes, hip fractures, heart attacks, etc, their children are forced to get involved and often have NO idea which plan their parents have and which doctors or hospitals are in the network. This also frequently happens while traveling out of state, again, networks can become problematic in these instances.
Answered by Christopher Boyd on September 7, 2025
Agent Licensed in IN, KY, MI, OH, PA & TN
Answered by Ann Sanfelippo on October 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 14 other states
You can also google reviews of a plan or go to Medicare.gov to see the plan ratings. Your agent can also share that information with you as well.
Answered by Pamela Masters on November 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC
How can I select the right healthcare company and representative to work with? I would say, first of all, find somebody who represents more than one company. Otherwise, you're dealing with a sales agent, and that's it. The person's job is to sell you a policy from that insurance company, whether it's United Healthcare, HealthNet, Humana, SCAN, Alignment, Aetna, CVS, or whoever. Their job is to sell you, regardless of your needs. How many of these people are gonna say, "You know what? I represent Joe Blow Medicare Company, and I don't think you need to be with us"? They're not gonna tell you that.
So, find a broker that represents at least five to seven companies. Those five to seven companies should probably have 50 or 60 different plans, including Medicare supplemental policies. Have them take you through the discipline of a needs analysis. Then, you'll know what your needs are, and you can match up policies that go along with those needs.
We've all had lots of shocking information this last year about United Healthcare and terrible things that are happening, leaving people angry. I don't want that for you. One way you can find out if your insurance company, per se Medicare Advantage company, is gonna be difficult to deal with is by looking at star ratings. A star rating of 4.5 or above is more than likely gonna lead to a fairly good fit for most people's needs in terms of accessibility, available resources, affordability, infection rates, mortality rates, etc.
So, use the star ratings. Although they're a looking-backwards perspective, if they've been successful the last ten years, then they're probably gonna continue to be. Run away from companies that have a 2.5 or a 3.0 star rating because they haven't even met the metrics that Medicare requires of them to keep their plan in action.
So, there's a few things to guide you. Find somebody like me who can assist you in navigating your needs. Look for five or six companies that they represent, do the field work, and you'll be happy. And guess what? You can change next year if you need to.
Answered by Charise Karjala on May 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO, PA & WA
Answered by Lynn C Shurtleff on October 10, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, AR, CO & 6 other states
Answered by Clarence "Mark" Christiansen on May 17, 2025
Agent Licensed in WI, AZ, CA & 16 other states
Answered by Steven Lovell on July 1, 2025
Broker Licensed in GA, AL, CA & 11 other states
Answered by Tasha Riggs on April 12, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, HI & 10 other states
Good afternoon. It's Medicare Misty with Medicare Minutes, and it could be good morning, depending on where you are, or good evening, depending on what time you're logging in and seeing this. We get a lot of questions, and one of the questions we got today is, how can I select the right healthcare company and representative to work with? I love this question because I'm in over 48 states. So I can do basically any plans in those 48 states. But a lot of times it's better to go with local because local knows what your hospitalization situation is, knows what the provider situation is, knows which plans are better in that area. It does depend on what state you live in, based on how that plan is. The plan could be good in Tennessee, but in Georgia, it might not be such a good plan. So I would look at the years that they've been in the business. I would shop locally if you can. Then I would just look at the reviews of that agent, and maybe email them to see if you get a feel for whether you love what they respond with or check their website out. But do your research. I've been in the business for over 20 years, so I would love to help you.
Answered by Misty Bolt on July 5, 2025
Agent Licensed in TN, AL, AR & 46 other states
Answered by Marsha Reiniers on April 17, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL, GA, MI & NC, PA, SC & VA
Answered by Ezel McIntee on November 11, 2025
Broker Licensed in OK
Choose a broker who represents multiple carriers, not just one. Independent agents can compare plans from different companies and tailor a recommendation to your needs, not their sales quota.
2. Check Credentials
Ask if they’re licensed in your state and certified to offer Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Don’t be shy — a trustworthy agent will show you their credentials without hesitation.
Answered by Joseph Ritter on July 16, 2025
Broker Licensed in PA, AZ, DE & 7 other states
Answered by Teresa Berendowsky on August 13, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX, AR, LA & OK
This kind of agent is also called "a broker" who can elaborate on the wide variety of quirks of Medicare. This person can offer solutions that can cover those oddball situations. You may have heard negative references toward a broker but that has been attributed to a person who usually sells car and homeowner insurance (property & casualty) But it is the Medicare brokers who will attend multiple company events & have a greater knowledge of the complexities of Medicare.
You also want to ensure that among the possible 3 companies, the one with a history of as low a percentage of premium increase each new calendar year is possibly the one "to lean on".
Please remember that we are now at an unusual time in our history when inflation is world-wide and is not just reflecting the US economy.
Moreover, the rapport that you establish with an agent is an important consideration, too! So, when you have posed a question, if you feel that the agent hasn't properly conveyed the Medicare principle/answer (or seems to be double-talking), that is not the right agent for you.
Answered by Steven Bleicher on May 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ
Plans are insured or covered by a Medicare Advantage (HMO, PPO and PFFS) organization with a Medicare contract and/or a Medicare-approved Part D sponsor. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
Answered by Andrew Zurbuch, MBA on August 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in IN, FL, KY, MO, OH & TN
Answered by Jim Tretola on October 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in NJ, CA, CT & 6 other states
Answered by Michael Yost on April 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH, AL, AZ & 27 other states
Licensed Trusted Advisor
Más Health & Life
Health | Wealth | Life | Medicare
Contact me.
Answered by Robert Baez on October 30, 2025
Agent Licensed in IL, AZ, FL, OH & TX
Answered by Deb Haley on April 17, 2025
Broker Licensed in MA, AZ, CA & 11 other states
Independence matters. A captive agent works for just one company, while an independent broker can compare plans across multiple carriers. Independent brokers can show you a bigger picture, making it easier to find a plan that truly fits your needs and budget.
Ask about support. The best representatives don’t disappear once you enroll. They should provide year-round service—helping with billing issues, coverage questions, prescription changes, and annual reviews.
Look for clarity. Medicare is complicated. A good broker explains things in plain, clear terms and makes sure you understand before you sign. If you leave a meeting feeling more confused, that’s a red flag.
Verify licensing and reputation. Always check that your representative is licensed in your state and has positive reviews or references. Trust is essential—you’re not just buying a plan, you’re building a long-term relationship.
Personal fit. Beyond credentials, notice whether they listen. Your healthcare is personal, and your broker should treat it that way. You deserve a representative who respects your values and preferences.
Answered by Erlynne (Elle) Massie on September 11, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ, AK, AL & 48 other states
Answered by Valerie Schurman on October 4, 2025
Agent Licensed in IL & MO
Answered by Sagrario "Sage" Dyer on April 13, 2026
Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, CO & 10 other states
Answered by Donald Elliott on January 10, 2026
Broker Licensed in AL, GA & MS
It is always a good idea to seek advice from a Medicare-certified professional, such as an insurance agent specializing in Medicare, or an independent Medicare consultant. Reviewing agents online reviews such as Google Reviews is always a good idea to make sure the individual is experienced and professional.
Answered by John Zentner on May 19, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA
Answered by Steven Pomerantz on October 13, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ, IA, IL & 5 other states
Answered by Cheryl Mahon on January 5, 2026
Agent Licensed in CO
Answered by Kathy Greco on November 3, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL
Answered by Deidre Wilhelm on August 28, 2025
Agent Licensed in OH & WV
Answered by Fred Manas on May 4, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY, CT, DC & 7 other states
Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on November 19, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states
Answered by Mary Brown on March 30, 2026
Broker Licensed in NJ, DE, FL & NC, OH, PA & TX
Answered by Mark Boone on September 23, 2025
Agent Licensed in MN, FL, MI & NC, OH, SC & VA
Answered by Carol Conner on November 23, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX
It’s also important to work with someone who checks your doctors, prescriptions, and total yearly costs—not just premiums or TV-ad benefits. The right rep should be easy to reach, not pushy, and someone who reviews things with you each year so you’re never stuck in the wrong plan.
Answered by Antonio Rodriguez on December 4, 2025
Broker Licensed in OR
• Reputation: Look for strong reviews and ratings.
• Experience: Make sure the representative understands your specific needs (Medicare, chronic care, etc.).
• Network & Coverage: Confirm your doctors, hospitals, and medications are included.
• Transparency: They should clearly explain costs, benefits, and limitations.
• Communication: Pick someone responsive, patient, and easy to reach.
If they take time to educate you—not pressure you—you’ve likely found a good fit.
Answered by Cheryl Lyons on April 6, 2026
Agent Licensed in IN, AR, AZ & 12 other states
Answered by Toni Chavez on September 29, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, NM, NV & UT
Answered by William Scott on July 14, 2025
Broker Licensed in GA, CO, NC, OH, SC & TX
Answered by John Messler on September 30, 2025
Agent Licensed in NH, ME, NC, OH, PA & TX
Answered by Adam Morillo on July 17, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, AK, AL & 48 other states
Answered by Christine Brewer on December 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL
Answered by Fran Lovelace on May 29, 2025
Agent Licensed in NC, SC & VA
Answered by Robin Duffey on December 11, 2025
Agent Licensed in AZ, CO, ID, NM, OR & WA
Company:
- Find a local company that has been in business for at least 20 years and focuses on Helping Seniors with their healthcare needs.
- Find a company that trains its agents well and supports them.
- Find a company that is a broker and offers many products and services, rather than being captive and only offering one product.
Agent:
- Find a full-time agent with at least 5 years of experience.
- Find a Local agent who will meet you face-to-face at your home or their office.
- Find an agent who is well-versed in multiple products and selections.
- Find an agent that is focused on saving you money.
- Find an agent who is a Health to Wealth expert to offer you the best services.
There are many more criteria for both the company and agent, but if you focus on these basics
You should do well.
Answered by Sean Macbean on March 28, 2025
Agent Licensed in SC, GA, KY, NC, TX & WV
Answered by Frankie Cochran on April 1, 2026
Agent Licensed in GA
Answered by Jason Marshall on November 13, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA
Answered by Russell Scott on June 13, 2025
Agent Licensed in OK, CO, KS, MO & TX
Make sure they’re Medicare-certified, local or well-versed in your state’s options, and take time to educate you — not pressure you.
Answered by Emmond Wills on October 16, 2025
Broker Licensed in TN, AZ, FL & 6 other states
Answered by Kevin Johnson on October 17, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA, NM, OH & SC
I often tell people to talk to friends and family to see who they work with…or what they have. Since those are the people you trust most!
I’m happy to work with you in finding the right plan, and being your agent!
Feel get in touch with me.
I am The Insurance Nurse.
I’ve been a registered nurse for 23 years:))
Answered by Jamie Herrick on March 29, 2025
Agent Licensed in WI
Answered by Alexander Lehn on May 12, 2025
Agent Licensed in NV, CA, FL & TX
You will be approached/called/marketed to by many. Trust your intuition, do your research and you'll be fine. The more local the agent to you, the better.
Answered by Kyle Nystrom on April 28, 2026
Agent Licensed in VA
Make sure your representative will still be around when you need them in the next one, two, five or ten years. Many people get into this industry for the wrong reasons and find out quickly that it's not the ideal career for them. If your agent has been in the industry five years or more, chances are he or she will be around when you need them.
Answered by April Ryan on June 9, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC, SC & VA
Answered by Richard Allen on June 1, 2026
Broker Licensed in TX
Answered by Rene Casanova on April 3, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX
If you have a friend that has a responsive representative, you may want to reach out to them, or you can contact me. I pride myself with being there for my clients not only from the initial information and enrollment, but even more importantly, well into the future.
Answered by Ronnie Rosenberg on May 14, 2025
Agent Licensed in FL, AZ, CT & 9 other states
Answered by Wayne Creeden on October 22, 2025
Agent Licensed in DE, AZ, CA & 10 other states
Answered by Joel Montilla, Esq. on April 15, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL
Tags: Advice for Caretakers Advice for Seniors New To Medicare
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