The Difference that an Independent Health Insurance Adviser can Make

The high cost of health care in today's US economy is matched only, it seems, by the highly complex nature of selecting an ideal health insurance policy.

​It's easy to see why so many common mistakes in choosing a new health plan occur, given the slew of government regulations and the sometimes difficult to decipher terminology used routinely by insurance companies. In such, many consumers who have shopped for themselves in the past are now seeking help from someone with insurance expertise.  

In doing so however, it’s important for consumers to be aware of the differences between an insurance sales agent and an independent insurance advisor, so that they can make sure their needs remain in the forefront. By using an independent and experienced health insurance advisor, you can greatly simplify the process. Here are 5 top reasons to make use of their services:

Top 5 Reasons To Use A Health Insurance Advisor
While we could list dozens of good reasons to use a health insurance adviser, these 5 will serve as a concise, helpful summary:

1. Market Knowledge: professional health insurance advisers are familiar with the market and up to date on its most recent changes. They will know how to steer you in the right direction from the get go, which saves you valuable time.
2. Best Price Tag: an independent adviser/consultant can find you the best price on similar health insurance products, saving you money without leaving you under-covered.
3. Customization & Bundling: these insurance experts can give you valuable advice on how to best bundle coverage lines and policies and customize them to your exact needs.
4. Versatility: the right health insurance adviser will have completed their certification to review plans with you both on and off the exchange that are compliant with the ACA. In such, he or she is legally required to act in consumers' best interests.
5. Long-term Service: your adviser will continue to serve you long after you sign on the dotted line; assisting with claims and providing annual consultations to help you maintain the right coverage year over year.

The Difference Between An Independent Adviser and a Sales Agent/Broker
Agents and brokers can do most of the same things for you as an independent adviser would do, but there is an important difference. And, it’s as simple as the type of consumer experience you want to have.

A "captive" health insurance "agent" works for just one insurance company and can only offer you plans from that company. Many choose to work with an agent like this because they believe he or she will have a more in-depth knowledge of that particular insurer and might be able to get them a special deal. In reality- all this does is limit your choices.

Since an independent health insurance advisor is not bound by such strictures, he or she can often meet your needs better than a captive agent could. The independent advisor can offer you plans from practically any company and will not be driven by sales quotas, as many captive agents are.  

Additionally, while both brokers and agents work on carrier commissions and are motivated to sell, independent insurance advisors receive compensation regardless of which insurer they connect you with. In such, they can work for YOU instead of for the insurance company and this makes a world of difference in your end results.   

An independent advisor can match you to the plan that best fits your needs and is not incentivized to add on extra "bells and whistles" like a sales agent or broker would be. In such, your advisor will help make sure your coverage is adequate but also, that you are not over-sold coverage.

When ACA certified, your agent, broker, or independent advisor can assist you in selecting a plan, can help you with the annual enrollment process, and can help you acquire a premium tax credit if you qualify for one. They all have the same state licenses and credentialing. One that operates as an independent advisor, however, might also be able to consult with you in more detail to help you identify other other ways to save money on health insurance expenses; providing valuable insight and advice to help you make an informed decision.  

Again, the difference is the kind of experience you will have with the professional you choose to work with.

For that reason, it's crucial to understand the difference between a true advisor and a sales agent/broker. Talk to us at Summerlin Benefits Consulting, and we will provide you with the expertise and support to help you identify your ideal health insurance solution.