What You Should Know Before Meeting with A Covered California Insurance Agent

If you’re looking to get health insurance in California, you want to work with a Covered California insurance agent.  That is an insurance agent who has been vetted by the state as qualified to participate in California’s health marketplace, as part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).  These are the most trustworthy and reputable insurance companies in California.

This is particularly important if you’re looking to join Medicare, or if it’s the annual enrollment period and you want to change your Medicare plan.  Such agents will do their best to help you find the right Medicare coverage for your needs, but you can make the process easier with a little preparation.

Preparing to Meet with A Covered California Insurance Agent

Understanding the “Scope of Appointment” paperwork

California doesn’t want their insurance agents unduly pressuring people to sign up for insurance policies they may not want or need.  So, prior to your meeting, you’ll be asked to fill out a form explicitly saying which types of insurance you’re interested in.  The agent will only be allowed to discuss these plans.

So, think carefully.  For example, if you need vision coverage but fail to indicate this on the form, your Covered California insurance agent will be legally unable to discuss it.

Bring as much documentation as you can

This one’s simple: the more information you can provide about your current medical situation, the easier it will be for the insurance agent to determine the right plan for you.  Some of the most important information to bring includes:

• Your current medical care provider(s) and preferred doctor(s)
• Lists of all prescription medications you’re on
• Information on serious illnesses you either have, or have a family history of, such as heart disease or diabetes
• An estimate of your prior year’s medical expenses
• An estimate of your monthly budget for insurance

 

Be willing to shop around

Under the ACA, Medicare Advantage programs can be different from provider to provider.  You don’t necessarily need to compromise if one agency doesn’t seem to have a plan that fits your needs.  You can call around and meet with other certified insurance agents looking for a better fit.

Good and Associates Makes Medicare Easy

We’re a Covered California insurance agent in good standing, helping our customers sort through a variety of insurance plans to find the perfect one for their needs.  Contact us today to start the process!