ALMIA Submits Formal Comments to HHS Regarding Medicare Advantage Broker Policies
The Alliance of Licensed Medicare Insurance Agencies (ALMIA) has submitted formal public comments to the HHS Healthcare Advisory Committee ahead of its November 9 meeting. The submission addresses the Strengthening Medicare Advantage Working Group's inquiries regarding broker compensation structures and the essential role licensed agents play in assisting beneficiaries with plan selection. ALMIA argues against a potential fiduciary designation, suggesting it could increase costs for seniors and limit access to assistance. The alliance also highlighted that current commission structures favor new enrollments over renewals and noted that tying commissions to the Consumer Price Index would have resulted in higher rates than CMS's actual rates between 2022 and 2025. ALMIA emphasizes that its agents provide critical support for rural and low-income populations, particularly as insurance carriers reduce their service areas.
Topics: agent commissions HHS Healthcare Advisory Committee insurance regulation Medicare Advantage