Should there be stricter regulations on Medicare Advantage marketing and sales practices?

Question

Tony Capraro III · Accepted Answer

This answer is provided in a video format. Watch the agent's video response here: https://medicareagentshub.com/questions/should-there-be-stricter-regulations-on-medicare-advantage-marketing-and-sales-practices#tony-capraro

Ronnie Rosenberg · Answer

The regulations on Medicare Advantage marketing and sales practices are already very strict, so no, I don't believe they should be stricter. That could potentially limit the good information that an agent can share.

Answered by Ronnie Rosenberg on April 7, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, CT, IL & 8 other states

Answered by Ronnie Rosenberg Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Bleicher · Answer

I'm sure most of you will remember this: A few years ago, there were many TV commercials featuring celebrities like Joe Namath, William Devane & Jimmie Walker which initially caused a multitude of problems for seniors who were about to become Medicare-eligible. They misinformed the public and caused many people to switch to another plan when they ALREADY had the VERY SAME plan with another insurance company in their possession. 

The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) forced these commercials to be redone and to eliminate the misleading information but still used those same celebrities as if nothing was wrong. This was a prime example of the need for greater supervision of these overly frequent TV commercials. 

Moreover, there are Medicare agents who are known as "captive agents". These folks can only sell healthcare plans for one company. Therefore, it is incumbent upon you to find 2nd and sometimes 3rd opinions from independent representatives who are affiliated with various companies who can offer both Med. Supplements, as well as Med. Advantage plans. There is a wide difference between these two plans. In my opinion, it is essential to find an honest broker who can describe the major differences between those 2 plans. Moreover, the most expensive plan is NOT always the best plan. Check out the premiums along with the value of a plan's annual deductible if you're interested in an Advantage plan.

Tasha Riggs · Answer

No. The regulations make is harder for honest people and the seniors. The issues is that the dishonest people are NOT following the rules. Calling Seniors with permission to contact forms. They are signing them up without Scope of Appointments. 
The high pressured scammers are the problem and not following any rules. I get calls every 10 minutes from people trying to pressure me and make false claims about insurance and I am a broker!!

Steve Houchens · Answer

There are already strict marketing practices in place for agents. Although some may not follow the rules in place and particularly seems to be issues with call centers mostly those from outside the USA. Its always helps to get to know your agent and more than just an unknown voice on the other end of the phone.

Answered by Steve Houchens on April 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Henderson · Answer

There are very strict rules regarding Medicare advantage sales practices. The one rule I wish they would force agents to do, which is what I regularly do is explain all your options which are other plans such as Medicare supplement, also known as medigap plans. These actually have much better coverage. But in the event that they are not affordable to you, that's why there's Medicare advantage plans

Answered by Gary Henderson on April 14, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 46 other states

Answered by Gary Henderson Medicare Insurance Agent

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

Yes, stricter regulations on Medicare Advantage marketing and sales practices are needed.  More oversight is needed

Jessica Breland · Answer

No. There are so many restrictions now that it is incredibly difficult for those of us that are following all the rules. I understand the regulations are to protect beneficiaries & for the people who aren't doing right but they're not following the rules anyway. So, it just makes it harder for the rule followers. I understand the need for regulations, I just feel like there should be stricter punishments for the ones breaking the rules.

Answered by Jessica Breland on April 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in LA

Answered by Jessica Breland Medicare Insurance Agent

Kimberly Griego · Answer

Absolutely. Most local agents and brokers are doing what's in their clients best interests. The larger problem lies in the call centers, where they don't always follow the rules. Medicare beneficiaries are often switched to plans that they later find don't work with the medical providers or prescription drug plans.

Answered by Kimberly Griego on April 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in WA, AZ, ID & OR

Answered by Kimberly Griego Medicare Insurance Agent

Should there be stricter regulations on Medicare Advantage marketing and sales practices?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Related Questions

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website

Should there be stricter regulations on Medicare Advantage marketing and sales practices?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Related Questions

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website