July 21st, 2020
If you are an agent that sells Medicare advantage plans or prescription drug plans, you are probably neck-deep in completing your re-certifications in preparation to sell during this AEP (Annual Election Period). For agents that are not working in the Medicare market, you should consider doing so. Medicare sales are a great way to add a recurring commission stream to your agency and is one of the largest opportunities an agent has in terms of prospects; more than 10,000 people age into Medicare every single day. When they do, you can offer them the coverage that requires no underwriting, i.e Medicare supplement plan.
Rick Roberts
Health Marketing Manager
800.541.6705
Another benefit to participating in the Medicare market is the wonderful opportunity to cross-sell other products to assist Medicare beneficiaries to fill gaps where Medicare does not offer coverage, or to assist in coverage of unexpected expenses. One of the most common products sold to a Medicare beneficiary, other than Medicare supplements and prescription drug plans, is a dental/vision/hearing plan. These benefits are not covered by Medicare as well as Medicare supplement policies.
What conditions can be linked to oral health?
Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some, including:
• Endocarditis
This infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium) typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to certain areas in your heart.
• Cardiovascular disease
Although the connection is not fully understood, some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
• Pneumonia
Certain bacteria in your mouth can be pulled into your lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.
Certain conditions also might affect your oral health, including:
• Diabetes
By reducing the body’s resistance to infection, diabetes puts your gums at risk. Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes. Research shows that people who have gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels. Regular periodontal care can improve diabetes control.
• Osteoporosis
This bone-weakening disease is linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss. Certain drugs used to treat osteoporosis carry a small risk of damage to the bones of the jaw.
• Alzheimer's disease
Worsening oral health is seen as Alzheimer’s disease progresses.
I hope you can see the importance of good oral health and how important it is for your clients to have a good dental plan. Dental is not the only opportunity a Medicare agent has to help their client. Some of the ancillary products sold to Medicare beneficiaries include but are not limited to: cancer/heart attack or stroke, hospital indemnity, home health care/long-term care, and final expense coverage. Â
If you are an agent that is looking to get into the Medicare market, this is a great time to start allowing time to get contracted and certified prior to this years’ AEP season, which runs from October 15th to December 7th.
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If you are a Medicare agent and would like to learn more about these other products and/or to learn how to cross sell these products, please reach out to us. We would love to help you grow your business.
Source:Â https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475#
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