CMS’ 2025 Proposed Final Rule
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has introduced a proposed rule, CMS-4205-P, aimed at amending current regulations for Medicare Advantage and Part D programs. This proposal, set to take effect for the 2025 contracting year beginning September 30, 2024, includes significant changes in Medicare marketing and communications policies, particularly concerning agent and broker compensation as outlined in Section 1851(j) of the Act. These changes are expected to have a substantial impact on the Medicare sales distribution landscape.
We recognize that this approach could have some drawbacks, particularly as this policy would, in effect, leave agents and brokers unable to directly recoup administrative costs.
– The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
These changes impacting FMO/Agency support, training, technology, and other items will impact beneficiary choice by reducing the agents that are not only offering Medicare Advantage but offering a wide variety of plans. In essence, this rule will have the opposite effect of what is being put forth.
In addition, the notion that small regional plans are getting anti-selected just does not stand up to what we see in the market. The free market year over year has varying top carriers including what regional carriers increase market share. The best plans for individual Medicare beneficiaries are what will continue to drive what plans are sold, period.
Key Aspects of the Proposed Rule Involve…
Eliminating Administrative Fees/ Overrides
The proposed rule intends to abolish compensation above the CMS maximum for individual agents/brokers, including overrides/admin fees paid at agency levels and higher. This could significantly affect agencies, especially those at the FMO/NMO level impacting the support, technology, and services being provided to agents. Find additional details on the Pinnacle 2025 Proposed Rule page.
Restrictions on Services Provided to Medicare Agents
Agencies and uplines may no longer be able to offer services such as quoting, enrollment platforms, such as Connecture and Sunfire, CRM software, support services such as website creation, logo designs, compliance guidance, discounted E&O and CE’s, marketing plan guidance, and agent/agency contracting.
Impacts on Different Agency Types
While all agencies would be impacted, LOA agencies and those focusing on ancillary product sales or who offer Medicare as a secondary service might find it easier to adapt to these changes. Agencies that are heavily focused on Medicare Advantage will be greatly impacted.
Changes in Marketing Reimbursements & Health Risk Assessments (HRA) Fees
The proposed rule plans to prohibit reimbursement payments/marketing allowances to agents/brokers for expenses and eliminate payments for completing HRAs.
Modifications in Commission Structures
Commission rates would continue to be standardized. This would include a small administrative increase that would in no way compensate for all of what would now be needed by agents.
Operational Adjustments for Agents & Agencies
The absence of uplines could necessitate direct contracting with carriers by agents and agencies, potentially leading to delays. Additionally, questions usually addressed by uplines must be directed to the carriers. If, and how quickly would carriers staff up to meet the huge demand of contracting, certifications, product training and more.
Our Industry’s Voices Need to be Heard
The CMS-4205-P proposal is a comprehensive document addressing these and other areas, detailed over hundreds of pages. The proposal is open for public comment until January 5th. CMS encourages professional and constructive feedback, particularly focusing on the value provided to clients and the potential impact of these changes on service capabilities. Comments can also be submitted through Regulations.gov.
What about Pinnacle?
Our team at Pinnacle will continue to be there to support your business and have made available resources for you to navigate and understand the 2025 Proposed rule and how it will impact not only your business but your Medicare clients. For more information, go to our 2025 Proposed Final Rule page for more detailed information on the rule and how to comment.
Reach out to a Pinnacle team member today with any questions.
1 (800) 772-6881 x7731 | sales@pfsinsurance.com
Bob Brzyski
Vice President, Marketing
Contact a Pinnacle Representative if you have any questions.
1 (800) 772-6881
support@pfsinsurance.com
