Choosing insurance that’s right for you can be complicated. Each year insurance companies make changes to their plans that can impact your out-of-pocket spend, the providers available on your network or which pharmacies you can visit. We understand that keeping up with all the changes can be overwhelming, so we work with many trustworthy brokers who can guide you and make the selection process easier.

A broker is a state licensed individual that specializes in a specific insurance type. Think of a broker as the real-estate agent for your insurance needs. It’s their job to stay up to date with the yearly changes that happen within the insurance industry. A trusted broker should not rush you into selecting a plan without giving you enough time to think about all the options presented. Any questions or concerns regarding your plan should be discussed with your broker, as they have the necessary resources to help you select the right plan for you.

Here are a few tips when it comes to working with a broker:

B – Be sure to let them know if you have a favorite doctor that you would like to continue seeing.

• This will give the broker the opportunity to choose from plans that are guaranteed to have your preferred provider.

R – Remember to inform them of any medications you’ve recently taken or are currently taking.

• Some insurances have a higher out-of-pocket cost for different medications. By letting your broker know what you’re taking will assist them in finding a plan that could possibly lower the costs and end up saving you money in the end.

O – Open up and be as transparent as you can.

• Remember, finding you the care you deserve is a broker’s primary concern. If you’ve experienced lifestyle changes such as being diagnosed with any type of illness or have experienced the loss of reliable transportation, make sure you let your broker know. Some insurances can accommodate these concerns and more.

K – Know if they’ll be there for you when you need them the most. 

• Some brokers are part time and might not respond late in the evening or during the weekend. Be sure to find a broker that’s available 24/7 or during an emergency. It’s important to check in with your broker often and not just open enrollment or special election periods. Your broker should be prompt in returning calls, texts and/or emails.

E – Every broker should be well-rounded and unbiased.

• A broker should have knowledge of all plans and should not just push what makes the agent comfortable. A true broker is contracted with all plans because you never know which plan will be the best fit.

R – Remember to ask the following questions after you’ve met with a broker.

• Was it clear and concise as to why a certain plan was chosen?
• Were medications checked?
• Were doctors checked?
• Do you know the cost associated with your plan?
• Do you know what the copay vs. coinsurance costs are?