When it comes to health insurance, whether enrolling in Medicare or through Pennie (Pennsylvania’s state-based health insurance marketplace), the process can be confusing & overwhelming. That’s why working with a local, licensed agent can make all the difference.
Here’s why choosing a local agent for Medicare and Pennie enrollment is one of the smartest decisions you can make.
1. Expertise You Can Trust
Health insurance is complicated. Medicare alone includes multiple parts—what seems like an alphabet of choices for supplement plans and tons of private plan options under Medicare Advantage. On the other hand, Pennie involves income-based subsidies, plan levels (bronze, silver, gold), and annual changes in coverage rules or premiums.
A local agent understands the ins and outs of these systems. They’re trained, licensed, and certified annually to stay up to date with changes in regulations, plan details, and enrollment rules. You get access to someone who knows the language of insurance and can translate it into clear, personalized advice.
2. Personalized Service, Tailored to Your Needs
Online marketplaces and national call centers might provide general information. They often lack the depth to understand your specific health needs, budget, or doctor preferences. Additionally, you may be talking to an operator in another country. A local agent takes the time to get to know you.
A local agent will work to find plans that include your current doctor and the plan for your specific medication needs, no matter what budget you are on.
3. Free Help That Doesn’t Cost You a Penny
One of the most common misconceptions is that working with an insurance agent costs extra. It doesn’t.
Agents are paid by insurance companies, not by you. If an agent tries to charge you a fee for this service, run!!!
4. Local Knowledge, Local Support
Healthcare is local. Networks of doctors, hospitals, and specialists vary by region. A plan that works great in one county may not be a good fit just one zip code over. Local agents know which plans are strongest in your area and which plans work best with local hospitals, which is the kind of insight you can’t find with national websites or call centers.
Most importantly, local agents are available for face-to-face meetings or local calls. They are nimble and able to act quickly with important life and income changes, instead of spending valuable time on hold with a 1-800 number.
5. Help with the Entire Process
Medicare and Pennie both involve more than just picking a plan. There are deadlines, documentation requirements, income estimates, and application forms to worry about. A local agent is there to help you through the process, which can include uploading documents, helping you look for subsidies and extra help with prescription costs, understanding letters from Medicare or insurance companies, and helping you switch plans during Open Enrollment and/or Special Enrollment Periods.
Without help, it’s easy to miss a step that could delay your coverage or cost you hundreds of dollars. With an agent, you have a guide who walks you through every phase of the process.
6. Support During and After Enrollment
Your relationship with an agent doesn’t end once you choose a plan. They’re there for you year-round. Did your plan drop your doctor? Did your prescription move to a higher tier? Your local agent can help you through these changes and even file appeals. During the next Open Enrollment Period, a local agent can help you make a better choice.
7. Protection Against Scams and Misinformation
Unfortunately, Medicare and Pennie are both targets for scams—especially around enrollment season. Fraudulent websites, unsolicited calls, and misleading advertising can trick people into making bad choices or sharing personal information.
Final Thoughts
Health insurance is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, impacting your care, finances, and peace of mind. Trying to navigate Medicare or Pennie alone can lead to costly mistakes, coverage gaps, or missed savings. The agents at Bridgeman Health, a division of Bridgeman Strategic Concepts, can hold your hand through the entire process. Schedule your consultation today.
