The online program is required for brokers and agents to sell Medicare Advantage Plans.
The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) announced that it has launched the 2025 Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Compliance Requirements Certification.1 Insurance agents and brokers are required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to complete this online program in order to be eligible to sell Medicare Advantage plans.
Enrollment in the program is open on the NABIP website.
In a press release, NABIP CEO Jessica Brooks-Woods said, “Developed by brokers for brokers, our course offers rigorous instruction on Medicare Advantage plan rules and the latest market trends. It not only meets all CMS requirements, but also received approval from multiple national and regional carriers, ensuring you're getting the best possible training. For just $100, participants gain access to top-tier Medicare Advantage training, continuing education credits at no additional cost, and a nationally recognized certification logo to market your accomplishment. This is a fantastic opportunity to enhance your skills and stay ahead in the competitive Medicare market."
Brooks-Woods continued, “NABIP has a long-standing commitment to providing high-quality education and resources to health insurance and benefits specialists. This new certification course is part of NABIP's broader initiative to support the professional development of health insurance agents and brokers. NABIP aims to elevate the standards of practice in the industry and ensure that Medicare agents are well-prepared to address the challenges and opportunities in the Medicare market."
In related news, The NABIP recently responded to allegations of unauthorized plan switching on the ACA Marketplace.2 In May, CMS issued a press release claiming that unauthorized plan switching was often a purposeful action committed by brokers and agents in the marketplace to scam users. Brooks-Woods, however, issued a statement arguing against the viewpoint.
"We are deeply troubled by the portrayal of health insurance agents and brokers in the CMS statement,” she said. “What was not addressed is the possibility that a large number of these unauthorized plan switches are due to technological vulnerabilities that allow automated systems to make the switches, not the unethical practices of agents and brokers."
In the same press release, NABIP president Eric Kohlsdorf added, “As a broker committed to helping consumers access affordable insurance while adhering to extensive government regulations, it's frustrating for our profession to be blamed. NABIP members adhere to a strict ethical code designed to support, protect, and advocate for Americans and our industry. NABIP is eager to collaborate with all stakeholders to find solutions and protections that Americans deserve."
Previously, in March, the NABIP revealed its Healthcare Bill of Rights, an initiative that outlined what the organizations believes are the rights of American citizens when it comes to accessing affordable healthcare.3
In a press release issued at the time, Brooks-Woods said, “NABIP's Healthcare Bill of Rights articulates the core values and principles of the association. They represent not just our beliefs but NABIP's commitment to ensuring that every American is empowered with the right to high-quality, affordable healthcare. These rights stand as the pillars by which we define our mission, measure our progress, and drive toward a future where equitable healthcare is not a privilege but a standard for all."
Brooks-Woods continued, “The announcement of NABIP's Healthcare Bill of Rights took place at our recent Capitol Conference, showcasing NABIP's dedication to shaping a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being and rights of all Americans. This significant milestone is a cornerstone in our commitment to creating a healthcare landscape that is privately accessible and affordable for every citizen."
Fake Weight Loss Drugs: Growing Threat to Consumer Health
October 25th 2024In this episode of the Pharmaceutical Executive podcast, UpScriptHealth's Peter Ax, Founder and CEO, and George Jones, Chief Operations Officer, discuss the issue of counterfeit weight loss drugs, the potential health risks associated with them, increasing access to legitimate weight loss medications and more.
MDMA Therapy for Mental Health Conditions: Do the Benefits Outweigh the Risks?
October 25th 2024Despite a recent FDA Complete Response Letter issued to Lykos for midomafetamine capsules for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, experts believe that the future is bright for psychedelic drugs that treat mental health conditions.
The Transformative Role of Medical Information in Customer Engagement
October 3rd 2024Stacey Fung, Head of Global Medical Information at Gilead Lifesciences, delves into the evolving role of Medical Information (MI) in the pharmaceutical industry. Covering key topics like patient engagement through omnichannel strategies, combating misinformation, and leveraging AI to enhance medical inquiries, the conversation with Stacey highlights MI's critical role in ensuring patient safety and supporting drug development. She also shares her professional journey and tidbits for early career professionals on professional development.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Creation of Medicines
October 24th 2024Najat Khan, chief R&D officer, chief commercial officer, Recursion, and Fred Hassan, director, Warburg Pincus, discuss how artificial intelligence can help reduce healthcare costs at the 20th Annual Young & Partners Pharmaceutical Executive Summit held at the Yale Club of New York.