As Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP) approaches, the stakes for health insurance agents are higher than ever. In 2024, more than half (54%) of eligible Medicare beneficiaries—32.8 million people—were enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans, according to KFF. This marks a significant leap from just 19% in 2007.
With this growth, the demand for expert guidance during this period has never been greater, making it a critical time for agents to shine. Here’s how you can retain your current clients, attract new ones, and make the most of Medicare Advantage OEP in 2025.
The Medicare Advantage OEP isn’t just another enrollment period—it’s your moment to shine as a trusted advisor. During these months, clients who are unhappy with their current plans are actively searching for better options, while your existing clients may need reassurance that their plan still meets their needs.
For agents, this means two things:
By taking proactive steps, you’ll not only grow your client base but also enhance your reputation as a reliable resource.
During the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP), which runs from January 1 to March 31, compliance rules are strict about outreach. Agents cannot proactively contact clients to discuss their satisfaction with current plans or encourage changes—this is considered unsolicited marketing and is prohibited.
However, if a client initiates contact or requests assistance, you’re free to help! Be prepared to answer their questions, review their current coverage, and evaluate alternative options. This is your chance to demonstrate expertise and guide them toward the right decision for their needs.
Compliance Tip: Ensure your interactions are client-initiated to stay within CMS guidelines and avoid any issues.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Quotit’s Call Recording and BEQ features to streamline these conversations and stay organized.
For beneficiaries looking to switch Medicare plans, the process can feel overwhelming. That’s where you come in. Offer straightforward comparisons of plan benefits, costs, and networks to help them decide with confidence.
Tools like Quotit’s Instant Plan Comparison make it easy to present side-by-side comparisons so clients can quickly see the value of switching to a plan that works better for them.
Fun Reminder: “Think of Medicare Advantage OEP as the New Year’s resolution season for Medicare—it’s all about fresh starts!”
Not everyone fully understands the Medicare Advantage OEP or how it works. While you cannot proactively reach out to discuss plan options, you can still position yourself as a go-to resource through general educational marketing that complies with CMS guidelines.
Focus on creating awareness with broad messaging via email campaigns, social media posts, or direct mail. Emphasize your expertise in guiding clients who may have questions or concerns—while ensuring your communications don’t target specific individuals or plans directly.
For example:
This is also a great opportunity to showcase tools like Quotit’s E-commerce Quoting Link, which empowers clients to explore their options online, reducing the need for direct outreach.
Compliance Tip: Stay focused on educating and assisting clients who contact you first to ensure adherence to CMS marketing rules.
Let’s face it—Medicare Advantage OEP can be hectic. Using the right tools can save you time and help you focus on what matters most: your clients. Here are a few ways technology can help:
With tools like Quotit’s platform, you’ll have everything you need to stay organized and efficient while delivering an exceptional client experience.
Staying compliant is non-negotiable in 2025. Make sure you’re up to date on CMS regulations and that your processes align with the latest requirements. Quotit’s EDE-approved solution is designed to help agents handle compliance with ease, so you can focus on what you do best: serving your clients.
The Medicare Advantage OEP is more than just an enrollment period—it’s your chance to strengthen client relationships and grow your business. By being proactive, simplifying plan comparisons, and leveraging technology, you’ll position yourself as an indispensable resource for both existing and new clients.
So, what’s your game plan for 2025? With the right tools and strategies, you can make this enrollment period your most successful yet.