The Medicare system, including various Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans, can be very confusing to beneficiaries and older Americans exploring their healthcare options. The guidance of experienced, licensed professionals is often indispensable. NAIFA President Doug Massey recently sent a letter to the chairmen and ranking members of the House Ways and Means Committee, Subcommittee on Health, and Subcommittee on Oversight outlining the role of the agent and suggesting ways Congress can strengthen consumer protections while preserving access to professional guidance. 

Agents educate consumers on how Medicare works and about their coverage options, analyze their individual needs and financial circumstances, compare different networks and plans, provide ongoing support, and conduct annual reviews. 

It is vital that agents receive fair compensation for their efforts and that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to prevent carrier companies from abruptly reducing or eliminating commissions. Massey, speaking on behalf of NAIFA, stated in his letter, "We urge Congress to work with CMS to require carriers to honor commissions for sold plans, prohibit commission changes after October 1, and ensure the continuation of lifetime commissions."

The letter also calls for policy changes that would eliminate burdensome requirements that agents record and retain calls with clients, reform a rule requiring agents and brokers to complete scope-of-appointment documents 48 hours prior to meeting with beneficiaries, and simplify the annual certification process.