By SYLVIA GORDON
Guest Columnist
When I need to purchase something, the first thing I do is an internet search. A little research and I can quickly get a feel for the prices, and if I need to see the item, I can go check it out locally, but still buy it from Amazon.
This consumer behavior has permeated our society to the point that those turning 65 often use a local agent to explain the plan options and recommend a plan for their Medicare needs, only to then turn around and call Mutual of Omaha or AARP directly and enroll with the company without an agent.
Most people feel like savvy consumers. They cut out the middle man and naturally are proud of the savings they surely reaped.
Only they didn’t save a dime.
Medicare insurance plans have the price of the agent baked in, so to say. You don’t save money by foregoing an agent. In essence, an agent is free! You can get a live, local agent that you can work with for the rest of your life who represents dozens of insurance companies. Or, you can call Humana and they will only tell you the best options Humana offers. When Aetna comes out with a more competitive plan, will Mutual of Omaha advise you to change? Never. But an agent that works for you will work to keep you happy.
With two kids in college, I’m all about saving money too. But there is no way to cut out the middle man in Medicare insurance (like there is with car insurance). If you call Anthem directly, you pay exactly the same as if you hired a local agent to advocate on your behalf.
We train thousands of agents in all 50 states on Medicare and Social Security. You have a lot of choices, so choose an agent you trust and enjoy working with. The average person will be on Medicare for 18 years, and your agent might recommend that you change plans many times to get the best benefits at the best rates. Don’t be afraid to work with an agent; she or he won’t cost you a dime.
Sylvia Gordon is the president of Gordon Marketing, headquartered in Noblesville, where she trains on Medicare and Social Security in all 50 states. You can contact her at sgordon@gordonmarketing.com.