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2021 Open Enrollment Season
Carmen Londono • October 25, 2020
2021 Open Enrollment season is right around the corner!
What is Open Enrollment?
Open Enrollment is the one time a year when you can enroll in qualified health plans through the federal marketplace or private insurance companies.
During this time, people can apply for what is known as Affordable Care Act plans, also known as Obamacare, by using healthcare.gov or applying directly from a carrier (with or without an agent).
When you apply through healthcare.gov, this is known as (on the exchange). When you apply through a carrier directly this is known (off the exchange).
The only reason to apply “on the exchange” and use healthcare.gov is specifically for getting a subsidy. A subsidy is a tax credit that is taken up front and paid directly to the carrier. Oftentimes (not always) those who qualify for a subsidy can also qualify for a cost sharing feature where in addition to the subsidy the government shares the cost of deductibles, copays and out of pocket expenses.
If you qualify for a subsidy and/or cost sharing for your insurance plan, getting your insurance through healthcare.gov or “on the exchange” does not provide any other benefit for the member. As a matter in fact, if and when you have an issue it is a cumbersome process to have to go through healthcare.gov in order to have your issue resolved.
The opportunity allows people to change their policies without needing a life event such as new employment, marriage, divorce or a new dependent child.
Finding the right plan for you is still as stressful as always, however making sure that you have found the right plan is more important than ever. Making sure your doctors are in-network, medications are covered etc. All just as important as the bottom line. Having the guidance of an insurance agent can provide the assistance needed to ensure you are picking the right plan, not to mention it eases the stress of having the need to figure it out on your own.
When is Open Enrollment:
Open Enrollment starts November 1st and ends December 15th 2020. That will give you just 6 weeks to choose a plan and get signed up.
What if I already have a plan from last year?
If you purchased a plan last year, you will automatically be re-enrolled for this upcoming enrollment. Sounds good right? Beware - plans often change and this can mean different networks, your prescriptions might no longer be covered or covered under the same rates etc. It is always good to check in with your agent or carrier and compare your 2020 plan summary with the 2021 summary.
Special Enrollment Period
This rule will still apply. If you have a life changing event, like getting married, divorced, having a baby, changing jobs, losing coverage (as long as it is not due to non payment), moving counties or states, you will be able to either purchase an insurance policy or make a change to your existing policy. You will have 60 days from your life changing event to make changes or purchase a policy.
Short Term Policies, Gap Insurance policies and Telemedicine:
These policies are meant to bridge the gap. However more and more people are turning to these policies and coupling them with supplemental plans such as Critical Illness plans, Hospital Indemnity plans, Accident plans etc. These policies are not Affordable Care Act qualified policies nor do they adhere to the ACA rules.
,, Healthiest You (Telemedicine) can also be purchased. It can be bought as a stand alone policy or as a compliment to any other policy. It allows you to have as many virtual doctor visits for one low price monthly price.
Ways to Apply:
There are various ways to apply for individual benefits.
- Apply online direct either on the exchange or off
- Via phone
- Agent or broker
- Paper application submitted directly to the carrier
- Certified enroller or navigator
Want more information? Join us for one of three informational sessions taking place via google meets. Click on your desired date and it will take you to the session.
#healthinsurance #obamacare #affordablecareact #individualinsurance #telemedine #short-termplan #openenrollment #openenrollment2021
Listen, we get it—insurance isn’t exactly the first thing you want to deal with in the new year. But trust us, it’s about to be the easiest thing you check off your list in 2025. Here at The Insurance Pros, we’re more than policies and paperwork; we’re your go-to for peace of mind and confidence that your people, your home, your everything are covered. Here’s how we’re showing up this year to make insurance a breeze: 1. Clarity in Coverage You know how insurance feels like a foreign language? Like, “Am I supposed to have a dictionary for this?” We’re not doing that anymore. In 2025, we’re putting the fine print on blast and making sure you actually understand your coverage. No guessing. No confusion. Just straightforward info about what’s covered, what’s not, and what’s next. For real, when you sit down with us, you’ll leave knowing exactly how your policy protects you and your family. Because insurance isn’t supposed to make you feel like you’re solving a Rubik’s Cube. 2. Enhanced Client Education Let’s be honest: when it comes to insurance, the more you know, the less you panic. That’s why 2025 is the year we’re stepping up our education game. Think blogs that break it all down, videos that don’t bore you to tears, and myth-busting that makes you go, “Wait… I didn’t know that.” We’re also launching a newsletter! Want exclusive tips, updates, and answers to your burning insurance questions delivered straight to your inbox? Head over to our Contact Us page to sign up for our emails. Staying informed has never been easier. And that’s not all—we’re bringing even more helpful info to our social media. Follow us for practical advice, timely updates, and a little humor to brighten your day. Insurance doesn’t have to be dull, and we’re here to prove it. 3. Community Connection We’re not just the folks you call for insurance; we’re part of your neighborhood. This year, we’re getting out there and showing up for our communities. Local events? We’ll be there. Supporting initiatives that make life better for you and yours? Count us in. 2025 is about building connections that matter—and not just in business. Whether it’s sharing resources or helping families get the protection they need, we’re here for you. 4. Stress-Free Service Life’s already stressful enough. The last thing you need is your insurance giving you a headache. That’s why we’re making everything smoother—from policy reviews to claims to renewals. Simple. Quick. Done. We’ve got new tools coming your way, like a client portal and automated reminders, so you can stay on top of your coverage without lifting a finger. When we say “stress-free insurance,” we mean it. We Want to Hear from You What are your 2025 goals? Protecting your family? Growing your business? Finally getting your insurance in order? Whatever it is, we’re here to help make it happen. We’re inviting you to share your goals with us. How can we support you this year? Whether it’s personalized advice or just being there when you need us, we’re ready to partner with you every step of the way. Here’s to a Great Year Ahead 2025 is a new chapter, and we’re so grateful to be part of your story. Thank you for trusting us with what matters most. At The Insurance Pros, we’re ready to help you navigate whatever comes next—with confidence, clarity, and zero drama. Here’s to a year of protection, peace of mind, and progress—together.
As the holiday season approaches, we at The Insurance Pros (TIP) want to extend our warmest wishes to our cherished clients and partners. Reflecting on the past year, we're filled with gratitude for the trust you've placed in us and the milestones we've achieved together. This year, we expanded our comprehensive insurance solutions, ensuring that your life, assets, and peace of mind remain our top priorities. From personalized home and auto coverage to tailored business insurance plans, we've been dedicated to providing protection that truly works when life gets real. A highlight of 2024 was our commitment to assisting small and micro businesses in entering the group market. We introduced options like One Person Group plans, allowing business owners to secure quality coverage for themselves or retain that rockstar employee in need of better benefits. As we look forward to 2025, we're excited to continue offering insurance made clear and protection made simple. Your support has been instrumental in our success, and we're eager to keep delivering the reliable and affordable coverage you deserve. ✨ From all of us at TIP, may your holidays be filled with joy, and may the new year bring you health, happiness, and prosperity. Here's to another year of protecting what matters most! Call to Action: As we gear up for another amazing year, let us be your go-to for all things insurance. Whether it's protecting your home, business, or future, we're here to make coverage clear and hassle-free. Visit insurepros.net to explore how we can help you start 2025 with confidence! 💼📞
Carmen shares her go-to sofrito recipe, the flavorful base that brings depth and richness to so many Latin dishes.
Dr. José Celso Barbosa, a man who was out here in the 1800s breaking molds and making history. When we say “trailblazer,” we mean it! Born on July 27, 1857, Barbosa wasn’t just the first Black Puerto Rican to practice medicine in Puerto Rico—he was one of the first Black men to earn a medical degree in the U.S., period. He didn’t just break down doors; he paved a whole highway for generations after him, from medical innovation to political activism and even inventing a little thing we now call “employer-based health insurance.” Yes, he did that too. Schooling and Straight-Up Determination: A Role Model for the Ages Barbosa’s journey to becoming a doctor? Not for the faint-hearted. This was the late 19th century, where being Black, Puerto Rican, and ambitious enough to attend the University of Michigan for medical school was unheard of. But Barbosa wasn’t about to let anything stop him. He graduated in 1880, kicking down barriers and showing other Hispanic and Black folks that medicine, too, could be their calling. This man’s hustle didn’t just make him a doctor—it made him a beacon for everyone dreaming bigger than the world thought they could. Employer-Based Health Insurance? Yeah, He Was That Visionary Barbosa didn’t just want to be any doctor; he wanted to make healthcare work for the people. When he got back to Puerto Rico, he looked around and saw the healthcare crisis brewing for low-income families. So, what did he do? He set up a mutual aid system, asking people to contribute a small monthly fee to cover their healthcare costs when needed. Yup, he practically invented employer-based health insurance right there in Puerto Rico. It was revolutionary. Quality healthcare, he believed, shouldn’t be a luxury; it’s a right. This man was doing 21st-century things in the 1800s! Politics and the Fight for Puerto Rican Autonomy Now, as if medicine and employer-based health insurance weren’t enough, Barbosa decided to jump into politics. In 1899, he started the Puerto Rican Republican Party, giving Puerto Ricans a voice and demanding equal representation. He was all about empowering his people, and his political legacy is still a blueprint for leaders fighting for Puerto Rican rights today. Barbosa was about Puerto Rican dignity, identity, and autonomy, and he wasn’t afraid to challenge power structures to make that happen. Honoring Dr. Barbosa During Hispanic Heritage Month Dr. José Celso Barbosa didn’t just live a life; he made history. He’s what Hispanic Heritage Month is all about—honoring those who paved the way, lifted communities, and demanded better for everyone around them. Barbosa’s legacy is proof of the power of pushing boundaries and standing up for what’s right, even when the world isn’t ready. This month, we celebrate his work, his courage, and his relentless pursuit of justice. Let his story remind us to keep fighting, keep dreaming, and always keep looking out for each other.
In celebration of #HispanicHeritageMonth , I’m sharing a special recipe each week that’s close to my heart!  First up is my Feta & Fire-Roasted Salad —a flavorful dish packed with tangy feta and smoky roasted veggies. It's one of my personal favorites!
It’s Q4! Time to get smart about your health coverage. New plans, better networks, and some serious savings are up for grabs. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by—let’s break down how The Insurance Pros can help you lock in the best plan for your wallet and your health!
Hey there! Gather 'round, because we’re about to dive into immunization coverage in Illinois health insurance plans. Whether you're a vaccine enthusiast or a bit hesitant, this info is going to make you smarter and ready to navigate that insurance maze like a pro. Why Immunizations Matter First, let’s talk about why immunizations are a big deal. Immunizations play a crucial role in keeping you alive and kicking. They protect you from a whole range of nasty diseases that can seriously mess with your health. From the time you’re a baby to when you’re all grown up, these shots keep you safe and healthy. Plus, staying up-to-date with your vaccines means you’ll recover faster if you do get sick, and it helps protect the people around you too. It's about building a strong defense for you and your community. What’s Covered? Alright, now let’s dive into what your health insurance in Illinois covers when it comes to immunizations. Most health plans have to cover a bunch of vaccines without making you pay out-of-pocket. That’s thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Here’s a quick rundown of some shots that are usually covered: Kids: Chickenpox , measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) , polio , whooping cough (pertussis) , and more. Teens: HPV , meningococcal , and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) . Adults: Flu shot , shingles (for those over 50), and pneumonia (for older folks or those with certain health conditions). Pretty cool, right? Your plan might cover even more, so it’s always a good idea to check with your provider. How to Make Sure You’re Covered You don’t want surprises when it's time for your shot. Here’s how to make sure you’re covered: Check Your Plan: Go through your health insurance policy or give them a call to see exactly what’s covered. In-Network Providers: Make sure you’re going to a doctor or clinic that’s in your insurance network. Going out-of-network could mean you’ll end up paying more. Stay Informed: Keep track of your immunization schedule. If you’re unsure about what vaccines you need, don’t be shy—ask your doctor! The CDC’s immunization schedule is a great resource. What If You’re Uninsured? No insurance? No problem. Illinois has got your back. Programs and local health departments can help you get vaccinated at little or no cost. It’s all about keeping everyone in our community healthy. A few are listed here- Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program Provides free vaccines to eligible children. Learn more: CDC’s VFC Program . Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Offers immunization services statewide. Learn more: IDPH Immunization Page . Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) Provides immunizations on a sliding fee scale. Find a center near you: IPHCA . Local Health Departments Many local health departments provide low-cost vaccines. Locate yours: IDPH Directory . Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Provides free and low-cost vaccines through city clinics. Learn more: CDPH Immunization Program . Ready to take charge of your health? Immunizations are key to keeping you and your community safe and healthy. Don’t wait—check your health insurance plan today to see what’s covered, make sure you’re visiting in-network providers, and stay informed with the CDC’s immunization schedule. Let's roll up those sleeves and stay protected! Call us now and keep your immunizations up-to-date. Your health matters, and staying on top of your vaccines is a powerful step towards a healthier future for you and those around you. Stay healthy, stay informed, and keep that immune system ready for anything!
Introduction Alright, friends, it’s that time of year again—Open Enrollment. Just hearing those words might make you want to hide under your covers, but don’t worry, I’m here to make sure you’re ready to face it head-on. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned vet, there’s always something new to learn when it comes to health insurance, and this year is no different. We’re going to break it down so you’re not out here making guesses with your health coverage. By the end of this blog, you’ll feel like a health insurance ninja, ready to take on Open Enrollment like a pro. And the best part? The Insurance Pros are here to guide you every step of the way. What is Open Enrollment? Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is Open Enrollment? Think of it as your annual opportunity to review, change, or enroll in a health insurance plan. Whether you’re looking to join a new plan, switch up your coverage, or stay where you are, this is your window of time to make those decisions. But here’s the catch—it’s a limited-time offer, my friends. The clock is ticking from November 1 to January 15, so you’ve got to make moves before the deadline passes. The good news? The Insurance Pros are ready to help you navigate this crucial period, ensuring you’re set up with the best possible coverage for the year ahead. Key Dates to Remember: GRAPHIC WITH DATES Mark those dates on your calendar, set a reminder on your phone—do whatever it takes to ensure you don’t miss this window. Trust me, you don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute. Decoding Insurance Terms Okay, now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, let’s talk about the language of health insurance. If you’re like most people, terms like “premium,” “deductible,” and “copayment” might as well be written in ancient hieroglyphics. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Premium: This is what you pay each month just to have health insurance. Think of it like a subscription fee. Whether you use your insurance or not, this amount is coming out of your bank account. Deductible: This is the amount you have to pay out of your own pocket before your insurance starts kicking in. If your deductible is $1,000, you’ll need to pay that much in medical costs before your insurance starts to cover the bills. Copayment: This is a fixed amount you pay for a covered service, like a doctor’s visit or prescription. It’s your share of the cost, and it’s usually pretty small—think $20 or $30 per visit. Understanding these terms is crucial because they directly affect your wallet. The Insurance Pros can break down these costs for you, helping you understand what you’ll be paying and when, so there are no surprises down the road. Why Open Enrollment is Crucial Now, let’s talk about why Open Enrollment is such a big deal. Life doesn’t stay the same, and neither should your health insurance. Maybe you got married, had a baby, or changed jobs—these are all major life events that can impact your coverage needs. Open Enrollment is your chance to review your current plan and make sure it still fits your life. Not participating in Open Enrollment means you might be stuck with a plan that doesn’t work for you, or worse, you could face penalties if you’re uninsured. It’s not just about picking a plan; it’s about making sure you have the coverage you need to stay healthy and protected. The Insurance Pros are here to ensure you don’t miss out on this opportunity. They’ll help you assess your current situation, identify any gaps in coverage, and find a plan that meets your needs. Conclusion So, what have we learned today? Open Enrollment is your yearly chance to make sure your health insurance is working for you. It’s a limited window, so you’ve got to act fast. But don’t worry—you don’t have to do it alone. The Insurance Pros are ready to help you navigate the process, break down the confusing jargon, and find the perfect plan for you. Whether you’re looking to switch things up or stick with what you’ve got, they’ve got your back. Don’t let Open Enrollment pass you by—reach out to The Insurance Pros today and make sure you’re covered for 2025.
Introduction: The 2024 Medicare Open Enrollment season is right around the corner—October 15 to December 7, to be exact. This is your golden opportunity to review your Medicare coverage and make any changes necessary to ensure you’re getting the most out of your plan. Whether you need to switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, join a new drug plan, or just update your coverage, this is the time to do it. But don’t worry, The Insurance Pros are here to help you navigate these changes and make the best decision for your healthcare needs. Key Updates in 2025: Prescription Drug Coverage: This year, there are significant changes in Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. With new caps on insulin costs and out-of-pocket expenses, you could save a lot—if you’re on the right plan. The Insurance Pros can review your current plan and compare it with new options, ensuring you’re not missing out on these potential savings. Telehealth Services: Telehealth is here to stay, and Medicare is expanding its coverage for these services. But not all plans are created equal when it comes to telehealth. The Insurance Pros can guide you through the maze of options to find a plan that gives you the flexibility to consult with your healthcare provider from the comfort of your home. New Plan Options: 2024 brings several new Medicare Advantage plans with unique benefits like fitness programs, transportation services, and more. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is right for you. The Insurance Pros will help you sift through the details, comparing benefits, costs, and network coverage to find the perfect fit for your needs. Enrollment Period Insights: Remember, you can make these changes between October 15 and December 7. You can join, drop, or switch to a Medicare Advantage plan, switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, or switch from one Medicare drug plan to another. You can also update your coverage by switching to a new plan from your current insurer or by choosing a new insurer altogether. And if you’re under 65 and receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits, you might be automatically enrolled in Original Medicare. Plus, if you need to make any changes during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment period, you have from January 1 to March 31 to do so, with your new plan benefits taking effect for the rest of the year. How The Insurance Pros Can Help: Navigating these changes can be overwhelming, but The Insurance Pros are here to help. They stay up-to-date with the latest changes and trends, so you don’t have to. Whether you need help understanding new benefits, comparing plans, or just want someone to explain what all these changes mean for you personally, The Insurance Pros are your go-to resource. They’ll make sure you’re fully informed and confidently enrolled in the best plan for 2024.
Hey, guys! Let's have a little chat about something super important—your health. Yep, I know it’s not the most exciting topic, but trust me, it’s worth a few minutes of your time. Whether you’re hitting the gym, playing a weekend game of basketball, or just trying to keep up with the kids, taking care of your health is key. And having the right insurance can make a world of difference. So, let’s dive into some essential coverage tips for men in Illinois. Ready? Let’s go! Why Men’s Health Matters Before we get into the nitty-gritty of insurance, let’s talk about why your health matters. Men often skip regular check-ups and ignore symptoms, but early detection and prevention are crucial. Regular health screenings can catch issues before they become serious, and having the right insurance ensures you get the care you need without breaking the bank. Common Health Concerns for Men Heart Disease: The leading cause of death for men in the U.S. Regular screenings and lifestyle changes can help manage and prevent heart disease. Cancer: Prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers are among the most common. Early detection through screenings can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Diabetes: A growing concern for many men, especially those with a family history. Regular screenings can help manage and prevent diabetes. Mental Health: Depression and anxiety are common but often overlooked. Mental health is just as important as physical health and should be treated with equal importance. Respiratory Diseases: Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common, especially in smokers. Early detection and treatment are vital. Reproductive Health: Issues like low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, and prostate problems are common. Regular check-ups and open conversations with your doctor can help manage these concerns. Must-Have Insurance Coverage Routine Check-Ups and Preventive Care: Regular visits to your primary care physician are essential. Preventive care includes screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and certain cancers. Make sure your insurance covers these routine visits and tests. Many preventive services are federally mandated to be free or covered 100%, so no excuses! Specialist Visits: Sometimes you need to see a specialist—whether it’s for your heart, joints, or another issue. Ensure your insurance plan includes specialist visits without needing excessive referrals or jumping through hoops. Mental Health Coverage: Mental health is just as important as physical health. Look for a plan that offers mental health services, including therapy and counseling, without high out-of-pocket costs. Prescription Coverage: If you need medication, having good prescription coverage is a must. Check if your plan covers both generic and brand-name drugs and what the co-pays look like. Emergency and Hospital Care: Accidents happen. Make sure your plan covers emergency room visits and hospital stays. It’s better to be safe than sorry! Key Screenings and Tests for Men Taking care of your health means getting the right screenings at the right times. Here’s a rundown of essential screenings for men, and remember, many of these are federally mandated to be free or covered 100%: Blood Pressure Screening When: Starting at age 18, at least once every two years. Coverage: Federally mandated to be free. Cholesterol Check When: Starting at age 20, every 4-6 years. Coverage: Federally mandated to be free. Diabetes Screening When: Starting at age 45, every 3 years. Coverage: Federally mandated to be free. Colorectal Cancer Screening (Colonoscopy) When: Starting at age 50, every 10 years, or earlier and more frequently if you have a family history of colorectal cancer. Coverage: Federally mandated to be free. Prostate Cancer Screening When: Starting at age 50, or 40-45 if you have a family history. Coverage: Check with your insurer, as coverage can vary. Skin Cancer Screening When: Annually, especially if you have a history of sunburns or family history. Coverage: Often covered, but check with your insurer. Mental Health Screening When: Annually, or as needed. Coverage: Federally mandated to be free. Reproductive Health Screening When: Regularly, especially if experiencing symptoms like low libido or erectile dysfunction. Coverage: Often covered, but check with your insurer. Tips for Choosing the Right Plan Know Your Health Needs: Are you someone who rarely gets sick, or do you have a chronic condition that requires regular care? Choose a plan that fits your lifestyle and health needs. Check the Network: Make sure your preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network. Out-of-network care can be significantly more expensive. Consider the Costs: Look at the premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums. Sometimes a higher premium plan with lower out-of-pocket costs is better if you need frequent care. Look for Added Benefits: Some plans offer perks like gym memberships, wellness programs, or telehealth services. These can be great additions to your health routine. Read the Fine Print: Understand what is and isn’t covered. Some plans may have limitations or require prior authorizations for certain services. Insurance Options in Illinois Living in Illinois, you have several insurance options, whether you’re employed, self-employed, or looking for coverage on your own. Here are a few: Employer-Sponsored Plans: If you’re employed, check out the health plans offered by your employer. These often come with lower premiums due to group rates. Marketplace Plans: The Health Insurance Marketplace offers various plans, and you might qualify for subsidies based on your income. Medicaid: If you meet certain income requirements, you might be eligible for Medicaid. This provides comprehensive coverage at little to no cost. Private Insurance: For those who want more control over their plans, private insurance is an option. Compare different plans and providers to find the best fit. Take Action Today Your health is your most valuable asset. Don’t wait until something goes wrong to think about insurance. Review your current coverage, see where you might need more protection, and make sure you’re getting the best possible care. If you’re unsure about where to start, reach out to an insurance agent—they’re there to help you navigate the options and find the best plan for your needs. Call to Action Ready to level up your health game? Contact us at Insurance Pros for a personalized consultation. We’ll help you find the best insurance coverage to keep you healthy and thriving. Visit our website or give us a call today! Here’s to taking charge of your health and living your best life! 💪
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