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CMS Removes the 48-Hour SOA Waiting Period: What Agents Need to Know for CY 2027

May 27, 2026

Introduction: A More Practical Appointment Process For the past two plan years, the 48-hour waiting period between obtaining a Scope of Appointment and conducting a Medicare marketing appointment has created a significant scheduling challenge for…

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The Training, Tools, and Support That Set Lourie Agents Apart

June 9, 2025

At Lourie Life & Health, we’re not just in the business of insurance—we’re in the business of building agents. Whether you’re brand new to Medicare and ACA or you’re an experienced broker looking to scale…

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Choosing the Right Medicare Path: A Side-by-Side Look at Advantage and Supplement Options

May 1, 2025

As an independent insurance agent, you’re often the first point of contact for clients navigating the complexities of Medicare. One of the most common questions you encounter is: “Should I choose a Medicare Advantage plan…

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CMS Final Rule 2026: What Medicare Agents Need to Know About Payment, Compliance, and Plan Changes

April 10, 2025

A Big Year Ahead for Medicare Agents If you’re an independent agent working in the Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) space, buckle up: CMS has finalized its policies and payment updates for Calendar…

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Selecting the right FMO for Medicare Sales: Key Factors 

March 1, 2025

Choosing the right Field Marketing Organization (FMO) isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a critical decision that shapes your success as a Medicare and health insurance agent. With so many options out there, how do you find…

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Maximizing Opportunities After AEP: A Guide to Medicare Advantage and Part D Enrollment Periods

February 7, 2025

What You Will Learn in this Guide Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP): Learn how this “do-over” period from January 1 to March 31 allows clients to make crucial plan changes. Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs):…

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2025 Medicare Prescription Drug Cap

January 2, 2025

Starting January 1, a new $2,000 out-of-pocket spending cap for prescription drugs is in effect for Medicare Part D beneficiaries, expecting to save millions of seniors an average of $400 per year. The cap applies…

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Medicare Drug Prices 2026

August 15, 2024

Medicare Drug Prices: The Biden administration announced today the first Medicare drug price negotiations, resulting in a $6 billion savings across 10 drugs to take effect in 2026. Read more here.

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Nursing Home Options

August 2, 2024

Medicare.gov has a feature that allows you to find and compare Medicare-certified nursing homes based on a location and compare the quality of care they provide and their staffing. This is a great tool that may…

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Fewer Americans are buying life insurance. Here’s when you might need it.

July 9, 2024

According to a recent CNBC article by Greg Iacurci, less American households own life insurance than in any period over the last 25 years. There are many reasons to consider life insurance; mortgage protection, final expenses, and…