A NAIFA Action Alert asks agents and advisors to contact their members of Congress and express concerns over a new Medicare marketing rule and request that lawmakers ask the Department of Health and Human Services for a delay of six to twelve months, during which the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services can work with stakeholders to improve the rule.

At issue is that the new rule, which was set up to target unscrupulous marketers, broadens the definition of third-party marketing organizations (TPMOs) in a way likely to harm "all entities that are currently acting responsibly." It would require agents and brokers to record all enrollment conversations.

NAIFA is concerned that the new requirement will add an additional burden to licensed and certified agents attempting to assist Medicare beneficiaries when they are choosing a suitable health and drug plan. The rule was only finalized in May, less than five months before the upcoming Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), and is set to take effect October 1. 

Because of the timing of the rule and cost of setting up HIPPA-compliant recording systems, many agents and brokers may be unable to participate in this fall's AEP, leaving thousands of Medicare recipients without professional guidance. 

Please visit NAIFA's Advocacy Action Center to learn more and take action.