​The Medicare Advantage Enrollment Period runs from January 1st - March 31st which is beneficial to those clients who are currently enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. They don't have to wait until the Annual Enrollment Period in October to make changes to their plans if they're not satisfied with them.​​ They can switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan (with or without drug coverage) or even dis-enroll from their current Medicare Advantage Plan and return to original Medicare. If they choose to do so, they'll be able to join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan as well (Part D).

​Things to consider if your client wants to make a switch:

• Are their doctors and providers in the new plan network?
• Are their prescription drugs on the plan formulary?
• How do the premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance stack up to their current MA plan?
• Does the new plan offer additional coverage such as Dental, Vision, and Hearing, fitness programs or OTC allowance?

​Remember, if your client enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan during their Initial Enrollment Period, they can change to another Medicare Advantage Plan (with or without drug coverage) or go back to Original Medicare within the first three months they have Medicare.

​If your client switches to a different Medicare Advantage Plan or they choose to go back to original Medicare their new coverage will start the first day of the month after their new plan receives the request for coverage. An important detail to remember though, if your client decides to go back to original Medicare and they want to enroll in Medicare Supplement plan, they will have to go through underwriting.

​Keep in mind, the best time for your client to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan is during their six month Medigap Open Enrollment Period. During this time they can purchase ANY Medicare Supplement policy sold in their state, even if they have health issues. This period starts the first month they have enrolled in Medicare Part B and they're age 65 or older.

There are many details to consider, before assisting your client with new coverage. Creating a Pros & Cons list to review both plans' benefits is important before making any change.

By Carolyn Portanova

Cybercrime is serious business and it's important to have protections in place to ensure your information is as secure as possible. Below are some tips to help you and your clients stay safe online.

Email

• ​Use a reputable email provider (Gmail, Outlook, iCloud Mail)
• Have a separate business email account with your own business domain
• Enable encryption when emailing sensitive (personal, financial, health) information
• Be sure to report and use the block and junk features in your email app
• Do not forward chain emails as they often contain false information and viruses
• Be careful opening emails from senders you don’t know and do not open attachments, as they can contain malware

Passwords

• Always create complex alphanumeric passwords and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts
• Consider using a password management tool (NordPass, DashLane, RoboForm, LastPass)
• Do not store your passwords on sticky notes or notepads
• Do not use the “Remember my password” feature on websites - always login each time
• Change passwords regularly

Internet

• Always log out of sites and clear your browser history before shutting down your computer
• Look for “https://” (SSL encryption) in your browser before entering personal or sensitive information
• Enable private browsing whenever possible and delete cookies regularly
• Set up multi-factor authentication to login to websites (Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator)
• Only use current, supported browsers (Chrome, Edge, Safari, FireFox)
• Never click on links from unknown sources
• Do not allow websites to store your credit/debit card information​

Mobile Phones & Tablets

• Use the screen lock feature on your phone and choose a random passcode that isn’t your date of birth
• Use biometric tools (fingerprint or face ID) to login to your phone and apps
• Keep apps and operating systems up to date
• Regularly review permissions and info that apps can access and disable app tracking
• Review your privacy, location and password settings anytime you download a new app
• Wipe the data from your phone with the ‘Find My’ feature should your phone become lost or stolen
• Be careful scanning QR codes

Computers, Software & Apps

• Always log off shared or public computers and clear your browsing history
• Keep operating system and software up to date (security patches, etc.)
• Always keep your laptop with you when traveling
• Only download software and apps from trusted sites
• Backup your data regularly
• If possible, upgrade your computer every 3-5 years to keep up with technology

Website

• ​Install SSL certificate(s) on your business website for secure browsing
• Use a secure hosting provider
• Have your website backed-up regularly

Remember to always air on the side of caution. Being vigilant about the safety of your and your clients’ information is crucial in this digital world.

Virus Protection

• Install anti-virus software and keep it up-to-date on all devices (desktops, laptops, tablets and phones)
• Be wary of pop-ups that advertise your computer is “at risk or infected with a virus” - these are scams and if you click on them you will download malware​

Home & Business WiFi Networks

• Create one network for personal use and another for guests, clients and smart devices
• Turn on your router’s encryption and firewall protection
• Change your router’s name and password from the default
• Use a router that automatically updates its firmware​
  

Public WiFi & Hotspots

• Avoid using unsecured, public networks and turn off auto connect to non-preferred networks
• Be careful using AirDrop or QuickShare over public WiFi
• Use a VPN for a secure session (NordVPN, Surfshark, Norton) if you have to use public WiFi
• Never use public WiFi to enter personal credentials on a website (hackers can capture your keystrokes)

Social Engineering

• Confirm the identity of anyone requesting information about you or who wants access to your device
• Be aware of Deepfakes (videos or audio recordings that manipulate a person’s likeness)
• Be aware of fake text messages that trick you into downloading malware
• Do not give out personal information over the phone unless you have contacted the company directly

Social Media, Chat Groups & Message Boards

• Be careful about what you share on social media and keep personal accounts set to private
• Even if you delete or archive a post or comment, screenshots live on indefinitely
• Review privacy settings on social media accounts and enable dual factor authentication to login
• Do not share that you’re traveling or away on vacation until after you’ve returned
• Do not use personal information (pet’s name, high school name) to protect online accounts
• Be careful when entering chat groups and message boards. Protect your identity, be mindful of what you share and report suspicious behavior

Financial & Health

• Monitor your credit regularly
• Implement a credit freeze by contacting all three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian andTransUnion
• Only access your health information through authentic, secure patient websites/apps
• Review your bills, health and financial statements thoroughly for any discrepancies
• Set up email or text alerts for financial institutions

Business

• Keep your business activities separate from personal
• Use a secure CRM to manage your clients and their health information
• Comply with HIPAA regulations to protect client information

By Carolyn Portanova