Commonwealth Fund October 12, 2021
Toplines
Licensed Medicare agents, or brokers, can help beneficiaries choose the right coverage, but financial incentives also can influence which plans they highlight
Differing commission rates could force agents to choose between their earning potential and helping beneficiaries choose coverage that meets their needs
Licensed agents (also known as brokers) and agencies can help Medicare beneficiaries choose the right coverage. Agents are individuals who are licensed and registered to solicit and enroll people into insurance products. Agencies provide administrative support such as marketing, technology infrastructure, compliance, and other services for agents. Medicare plans contract with agents and agencies to reach and enroll beneficiaries; in return, agents earn commissions directly from insurers. Independent agents and agencies represent multiple (but not necessarily...