Carrier Calls Podcast

Learn how brokers can address misconceptions about level-funded health plans. David Cardwell, Market Specialist at Amwins Connect, talks with Vicki Schmelzer - President of Amwins A & H Underwriters. They address misconceptions about the complexity and risk of level-funded plans, emphasizing the need for the right partners and strategies. They also highlight the importance of understanding the employer's knowledge and risk tolerance, compliance issues, and the benefits of proper stop-loss coverage.

If you want to sell level-funded plans, don't miss Part II of this insightful podcast from Dave Cardwell, our Amwins Connect Market Specialist. What You'll Learn • Key Differences between fully insured and level-funded plans • What to consider before switching to a level-funded plan • How stop-loss insurance works • How Amwins Connect Administrators can help you place your level-funded business

If you want to see if a level-funded plan is right for your group, don't miss Part I of this fact-filled podcast from Dave Cardwell, our Amwins Connect Market Specialist. What You'll Learn • The evolution from fully insured HDHPs to level funding • How level funding differs from self-funding and fully insured plans • How to determine if a level-funded plan is right for your client

We revisit this informative episode in which Magan Eubanks, Amwins Connect Regional Sales Manager for Los Angeles, gives a refresher on the Special Enrollment Period (SEP), also known as the Federal Enrollment Period. As the SEP is fast approaching, learn how groups can take advantage of relaxed enrollment and contribution requirements. The special window may be a good option to ensure that employees can access benefits. Check out SEP guidelines and cut-off dates for Open Enrollment FAQs and the Master Carrier Guidelines for everything else you need to know! (https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/sales-tools)

Jenifer Rossi uses her wealth of underwriting experience to identify the top 5 things that trip up groups during Q4. She offers tried and true tips for a smoother group submission process. New Business Cut Offs: California (https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/cutoffs-ca) Arizona (https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/cutoffs-az) Northeast (https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/cutoffs-ne) Master Carrier Guidelines (https://www.amwinsconnect.com/master-carrier-guidelines) Broker Appointments and Easy Enrollment Kits (https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/applications-forms)

In this episode, we wrap up our self-funding series by learning more about Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona's small group solutions. Kathryn Mattson, Director of Small Group Sales and Service for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ), discusses the benefits of small group balance funding plans. We look at wellness and other features that make BCBSAZ a stand-out option.

In this episode, Cari Stinchcomb, Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Arizona Director, Large Group Sales Services, introduces us to their large group self-funding solutions, including health programs and stop loss options.

In this episode, we are joined by Regional Sales Directors Christopher Condon and Steven Dzik to discuss level-funding options in the Northeast. United Healthcare's Dennis Markell, Account Executive, tells us more about their All Savers program, which combines self-funding advantages with wellness and technology to keep groups healthy and bills low.

In this episode, Brett Rodarte, Senior New Business Manager (under 500), discusses Cigna's level-funding and self-funding options. Learn how Cigna is bringing big benefits to small groups. We discuss what makes Cigna unique in the market, such as their network.

Join us to kick off our new series on self-funding options. In this episode, Regional Sales Director, Desaré Kallingal, gives a self-funding refresher with the top five things you need to know. Over the next several weeks, we're highlighting our carrier partners for a deep dive.

Chip Murray, Senior Vice President, Operations, discusses how the Operations team makes sure that groups get through enrollment smoothly and that brokers get the expertise they need.

We're excited to introduce you to more of what the Intel team is all about. In this conversation with Mona Mehta, Vice President Business Development, we talk about how Intel works to enable brokers to have the right tools at the right time. We discuss some of our favorite sales tools and how they enable brokers to make the sale and be the expert their groups need them to be. And we look forward to what is next for Intel. Broker Compensation Disclosure Toolkit: https://bit.ly/3qQHLAh Master Carrier Guidelines: https://bit.ly/3Do5rkw

In this episode, we feature David Cardwell Sr., Executive Vice President of Business Development, and Mike Donahoe, President of the Columbia, MD office of Amwins Connect Administrators. In this introduction to Amwins Connect Administrators, we talk about the experience and stability that their teams bring to brokers and how it creates strong carrier relationships as well. If you are in the Mid-Atlantic or have opportunities in the region, this is your one-stop shop for quoting through renewals!

In this episode, Jeff Grocky, Amwins Connect VP of Marketing, returns to discuss how brokers can target a broader audience with inbound marketing strategies. We also discuss how the Amwins Connect Marketing team helps brokers develop successful marketing campaigns. Hubspot 2021 State of Marketing Report: https://www.hubspot.com/state-of-marketing

This year, we started our conversation by talking about what Amwins Connect brings to the table and showcasing some of our resources and our amazing team. Marketing VP Jeff Grocky joins in to discuss how Amwins Connect is here to support brokers at all stages of their business and how marketing can help make them even more successful.

In our last episode of 2021, we are joined by Ely Schaffer, Regional Sales Associate, to discuss the importance of Ancillary. Don't miss the opportunity this Q4 to be your clients' one solution for all their group benefits. Learn why your groups care about ancillary benefits and how to start the conversation. We discuss Amwins Connect's portfolio of ancillary solutions. As always, we'll keep our ears open so you may see a bonus episode pop up in your feed. Otherwise, have a fantastic Q4 and we'll be back in 2022.

In this episode, Magan Eubanks, Amwins Connect Regional Sales Manager for Los Angeles gives a refresher on the Special Enrollment Period (SEP), also known as the Federal Enrollment Period. As the SEP is fast approaching, learn how groups can take advantage of relaxed enrollment and contribution requirements. While small groups are stressed by COVID, this special window may be a good option to ensure that employees can access benefits. Check out SEP guidelines and cut-off dates for Open Enrollment FAQs and the Master Carrier Guidelines for everything else you need to know! SEP guidelines and cut-off dates for Open Enrollment FAQs: https://rb.gy/g4wdsl

Jenifer Rossi uses her wealth of underwriting experience to identify the top 5 things that trip up groups during Q4. She offers tried and true tips for a smoother group submission process. New Business Cut Offs: https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/cutoffs-ca https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/cutoffs-az https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/cutoffs-ne Master Carrier Guidelines: https://www.amwinsconnect.com/master-carrier-guidelines Broker Appointments and Easy Enrollment Kits: https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/applications-forms Special Enrollment/Open Enrollment Period: https://www.amwinsconnect.com/broker-resources/sales-tools

Q4 is right around the corner and we have a few Q4 prep episodes coming your way. In this first episode, Rebekah from the Intel team gives a Q4 California Marketplace overview. Catch up on rate impacts, underwriting changes, and relaxed underwriting guidelines. Carrier Updates - https://rb.gy/ladahj Underwriting Promotions - https://www.amwinsconnect.com/master-carrier-guidelines Broker Bonus Round Up - https://www.amwinsconnect.com/news/broker-bonus-round

In this episode, Peter Meyer, Sales Associate, Business Development at Amwins Group Benefits introduces us to Voluntary Retiree Benefits. With this program, your clients can offer group retiree benefit plans while Amwins Group Benefits does the heavy lifting. With voluntary plans, the group can provide great resources for employees who are navigating retirement and Medicare. You have the opportunity to be the expert for your clients while receiving another revenue stream.

We are wrapping up our Summer with CoPower by revisiting Delta Dental. Jeffrey Glasco, Sales Account Executive, Northern California and Lisa Chacon, Sales Account Executive, Southern California talk about Delta Dental's exciting new 2021 portfolio. We review where Delta Dental came from and where they are heading. Lisa and Jeff provide insights and positioning for the new plans. We wrap up with a reminder about the broker bonus program. Small Business Guide https://www.amwinsconnect.com/sites/default/files/documents/De 2021 Portfolio Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=-0Gu3NkvHGk%29 2021 FAQ https://www.amwinsconnect.com/sites/default/files/documents/DeltaDental_FAQ_2021.pdf Delta Dental Value Adds https://www.amwinsconnect.com/sites/default/files/documents/Delta_Lasik_and_Hearing_Aids_Flyer_0319.pdf Broker Rewards Program https://www.amwinsconnect.com/sites/default/files/documents/Delta_Broker_Reward_Program_2021.pdf Smile Way Wellness https://www.amwinsconnect.com/sites/default/files/documents/Delta_Smile_Way_Wellness_Flyer_2021.pdf

This week, we continue our Summer with CoPower series. General Manager Dan Frey and National Market Strategist Ken Doyle are joined by T. J. Gustafson, Unum Managing Director to discuss life and disability benefits. We look at why Unum is a unique player in the market and talk about the advantages of Unum and CoPower. CoPower Value Add: https://rb.gy/c4ocin Unum Value Add | Travel Assist: https://rb.gy/otpnk4 Unum Value Add | EAP: https://rb.gy/kuivh8

Join us for the second half of the conversation, Catching Up with CoPower. General Manager, Dan Fry and National Market Strategist, Ken Doyle talk about what CoPower brings to the table, from finding the right fit for each group through their unique portfolios to providing powerful HR resources to every group.

Join us for the first of our podcast summer series as we catch up with CoPower. General Manager, Dan Fry and National Market Strategist, Ken Doyle talk about a powerful portfolio that makes CoPower unique in the market. We discuss the value of placing a case through CoPower and get a hint of CoPower's expansion.

Need a quick refresher on a revamped portfolio for Delta Dental of California? Jeffrey Glasco, Sales Account Executive, Northern California and Lisa Chacon, Sales Account Executive, Southern California catch us up! Want to learn more on CoPower? Tune in to our upcoming summer series!

Ever wonder about ancillary options from ChoiceBuilder®? Listen in for a quick update with Michael Payton, SVP, Sales & Account Management, CHOICE Administrators and David McClintock, Vice President of Sales.

Ever wonder how Kaiser's unique model works to ensure quality of care? Listen in with Kaiser Permanente® President of the Professional Staff at Southern California Permanente Medical Group - San Diego, Dr. William T. Tseng to learn more.

How the American Rescue Plan Act is affecting COBRA is on the top of our minds. In this episode, Jeff Strong, Vice President of Sales at Sterling Administration, catches us up on what we need to know. Let us be the expert in your ear so you can be the expert to your client. We’ll cover: • Who is eligible for the subsidy? • What are the notice requirements for plan administrators? • What should employers and plan administrators do now?

In this episode, we are joined by Jeffrey Glasco, Sales Account Executive, Northern California and Lisa Chacon, Sales Account Executive, Southern California to talk about Delta Dental’s exciting new 2021 portfolio. We review where Delta Dental came from and where they are heading. Lisa and Jeff provide insights and positioning for the new plans. We wrap up with a reminder about the broker bonus program. Small Business Guide: https://www.lisibroker.com/sites/default/files/documents/Delta_Small_Business_Guide_2021.pdf 2021 Portfolio Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0Gu3NkvHGk 2021 FAQ: https://www.lisibroker.com/sites/default/files/documents/DeltaDental_FAQ_2021.pdf Delta Value Adds: https://www.lisibroker.com/sites/default/files/documents/Delta_Lasik_and_Hearing_Aids_Flyer_0319.pdf Broker Rewards Program: https://www.lisibroker.com/sites/default/files/documents/Delta_Broker_Reward_Program_2021.pdf Smile Way Wellness: https://www.lisibroker.com/sites/default/files/documents/Delta_Smile_Way_Wellness_Flyer_2021.pdf

In this episode, Michael Payton, SVP, Sales & Account Management, CHOICE Administrators and David McClintock, Vice President of Sales, catch us up on California Choice in 2021. We talk about the website revamp, review underwriting changes, and get a couple of hints at coming expansions. As always with California Choice, Michael and David talk about how their eye is on making the process easy and the choices wide.

In this episode, we discuss COVID-19, the vaccine roll-out, and how Kaiser Permanente® has been uniquely equipped to respond to the pandemic. Featuring Kaiser Permanente® President of the Professional Staff at Southern California Permanente Medical Group - San Diego, Dr. William T. Tseng MD MPH, we talk about Kaiser Permanente®'s integrated model, involvement in COVID-19 treatment testing, and vaccine development, and how their approach has impacted medicine outside of their walls. Dr. Tseng covers vaccine safety and explains the distribution plan. "Kaiser Permanente launches first coronavirus vaccine trial": https://www.kpwashingtonresearch.org/news-and-events/recent-news/news-2020/kaiser-permanente-launches-coronavirus-vaccine-study-seattle "Kaiser Permanente joins late-stage COVID-19 vaccine study": https://spotlight.kaiserpermanente.org/covid-19-pfizer-vaccine-study/ "Biden picks 3 coordinators for Covid-19 response": https://www.politico.com/news/2020/12/29/biden-coronavirus-response-coordinators-451996

In this episode, we get to know our new carrier partner – Cigna + Oscar -- a little better. LISI Bay Area Sales Reps Jessica Carroll and Tia Colzani join C+O’s Sales Director – West Region Michael Lujan and Oscar’s Senior Market Development Executive Kaylan Kelsen to talk plans, positioning, and value adds. Michael introduces us to the partnership between Cigna and Oscar. We look at the regional network. Kaylan dives into a couple of plans and helps brokers position them against competitors in the region.

In this episode, featuring Jeff Strong, Vice President of Sterling Administrators, we discuss what employees need to do to keep their groups compliant. We cover the basics including what Form 5500 is and when it’s due. Jeff also describes the services that Sterling offers to help brokers who have new groups or need to file an extension. He’s full of tips and tricks to keep a group in compliance.

This episode features Jan Hollander, Anthem Blue Cross Small Group Specialty Sales Executive. She describes what makes Anthem Specialty standout like their integrated care and low participation guidelines. We also discuss how Anthem has responded to COVID-19 with innovative solutions like tele-dentistry. COVID-19 Resource Advisor: tinyurl.com/y25se7ck Specialty 2020 Broker Bonus: tinyurl.com/y4gtffho Dental Premium Promotion: tinyurl.com/y4vh7os9 Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

In this episode, Magan Eubanks, LISI Regional Sales Manager for Los Angeles gives a refresher on the Special Enrollment Period (SEP). As the SEP is fast approaching, learn how groups can take advantage of relaxed enrollment and contribution requirements. While small groups are stressed by COVID, the SEP may be a good option to ensure that employees can access benefits. Check out SEP guidelines and cut-off dates: https://tinyurl.com/y6xxwulf Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

This episode features Mark Ciciarelli, Manager of General Agent/Carrier Relations at Anthem Blue Cross. Mark previews some exciting changes on the horizon for Q1. Rates are decreasing while network flexibility is increasing. We also look at some unique plan options. We discuss how Anthem stands out from other carriers with technology to help members access care ˗ from quick onboarding to virtual visits to Alexa skills. We wrap up with why now is a good time to present Anthem as a solution to your groups. Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

In this episode, Jenifer Rossi, Team Manager, New Business Department at LISI, uses her wealth of underwriting experience to identify the top 5 things that trip up groups during Q4. She offers tried and true tips for a smoother group submission process. Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

In this episode, Jake Aguis and Joe Fink update us on MetLife's comprehensive portfolio. We take a look at what MetLife been doing to create more of a focus on small business and how they are creating advantages for groups under 100 lives. We discuss the exciting changes to the 5-9 market. And we wrap up with a look at large-group options. Your Small Business Advantage: https://tinyurl.com/y2mjqdxm Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

With Q4 on the horizon, we're discussing how brokers can navigate a successful busy season with our partners and our own resources. In this episode, Frank Estrada, Regional Sales Director and Rodney Endriga, Broker Sales Representative explain how the Ease platform guides groups through the enrollment process so they don’t miss any underwriting steps. The platform can also be customized to give members access to videos that explain their benefits, brochures to assist in the transition of care, and important benefit documents. LISI has an outstanding library, including plan rates. And the LISI Ease team is always available to set up groups and assist with any issues. The Ease online and mobile accessibility makes more sense than ever since many groups are considering a virtual open enrollment for the first time. Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

In this episode, Vice President of Sales Rob Carnaroli and Account Executive Sean Donnalley discuss how Sutter Health’s network is an integrated system with comprehensive patient services and quality health programs. As a not-for-profit HMO, Sutter Health Plus is a provider-sponsored health plan affiliated with Sutter Health, so patient care is integrated into every touch point—from plan design and selection to physician visits. Sutter’s telehealth utilization has grown exponentially due to COVID-19. Telehealth connects members to participating Sutter doctors who can access their medical history, when available, to help guide decision making. Also, Sutter’s unique walk-in care locations are in strategic neighborhoods for easy access to same-day care. We discuss what makes Sutter Health Plus a stand-out choice for members and brokers. LISI Regional Sales Manager, Sam Siders is the guest host for this episode. About Us: https://tinyurl.com/y5lcq98v Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

In this episode, we talk about Western Health Advantage with guests Elizabeth Hargett, Sales Director and Brian Christy, Sr. Sales Executive. As a regional carrier in northern California, we look at what makes Western Health Avantage a unique HMO option, including their community involvement and referral program. Western Health Advantage has several unique initiatives, including community-based exercise classes that have rolled into an online format to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions. CommunityFIT SUMMER 2020: https://tinyurl.com/yyg29bzn WHA Network Brochure-Prime 2020: https://tinyurl.com/y3c4ywvt WHA Sales Brochure 2020 v10.9.19: https://tinyurl.com/yyd8xypx Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

Listen to this episode for a deep dive into our broker-friendly payroll partner, Heartland. Learn about their extensive Payroll Services and HR Support from Clifford Gibson, Vice President - Strategic Payroll Partnerships, Michele Holmes, Payroll Territory Manager, and Ursula Behiel, Payroll Territory Manager. During COVID-19, Heartland has been busy helping clients navigate PPP loans, screening for WOTC credits, and re-staffing with inventive touchless hiring. They explain what broker friendly really means: not competing for business and offering expert resources to help brokers better serve their clients. Find out how Heartland helps brokers target groups and protect their book of business. We wrap up with a look at Heartland’s exciting new Ease enhancements. A Partner Not Competitor: https://tinyurl.com/y6dbd3t5 Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

Meet our new partner, Humana. Market Vice President Brian T. Sullivan, RHU, REBC, FLMI, MHP, CHRS introduces Humana’s story and focus on well-rounded health. Humana’s holistic approach includes an extensive line of ancillary products. We discuss EAPs and the increasing focus on mental health in the workplace, along with voluntary life plans and more. Brian also explains how Humana curates their network to meet the needs of small group businesses in California. Humana Unlimited Annual max: https://tinyurl.com/yadvqkmm Humana Extended Annual max: https://tinyurl.com/yawf5mj9 All Line Product Guide: https://tinyurl.com/ybze6gwf Enhanced Preventive Care: https://tinyurl.com/y8o67fkx Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

In this episode, we chat with Sharp Health Plan’s Sales Director, Don Truong and Small Group Account Executive, Cheryl Cote. Sharp’s strong regional focus means stable enrolled groups and networks that are curated to meet local needs. We discuss the unique option to select the Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Group where every detail of member convenience is considered from easy parking to care, all under one roof. Installing a Sharp group is simple with their all-in approach including dedicated account managers for every group. Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

In this episode, Aetna discusses their relationship with CVS including MinuteClinics and the coming Health Hubs located in select CVS locations. Their focus on care with heart, that’s closer to home, and feels whole weaves through every aspect of their service, from wide network options to Aetna's interactive and rewarding apps. Kathleen Dibble, Aetna Director of Sales, Small Group and Middle Market, and Blair Rhodes, CA Sales Rep wrap it up with a look at broker bonuses and Q4 insights. Aetna Mobile PDF: https://tinyurl.com/y9mxjrtm Aetna Whole Health - Southern California HMO Network PDF: https://tinyurl.com/ybhd9ya3 Attain App PDF: https://tinyurl.com/y76msq8v Broker Bonus PDF: https://tinyurl.com/y7afwgoo Minute Clinic PDF: https://tinyurl.com/ybqaulvv Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

Learn how MediExcel brings San Diego employers a unique option with cross-border care and dependent-only plans. Gustavo Garcia, Senior Sales Manager of MediExcel and Romina Camacho, Sales Support Manager describe an extensive urgent care network in San Diego and Imperial Counties. With extended hours for their main facility, it’s easy to get care outside of the typical workweek. They discuss their contract with HEAL, a premier telemedicine provider. They also highlight how their expanded pharmacy program addresses COVID-19. MediExcel facility tour: https://tinyurl.com/ya8lrdls Expanded RX program: https://tinyurl.com/ybzmrzfh Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

Learn how our new partnership with Guardian Life offers unique product solutions for your small employer clients with Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, Critical Illness, and Accident. This episode features Joe Colwick, MBA, GBDS Channel Manager, Strategic Partnerships of Guardian Life and Michael J. Lewis Sales Consultant, Small Group Sales – Los Angeles/Central CA. They introduce their flexible products, innovative EAP, network, top-tier customer service with Guardian Anytime, and advanced technology. They also describe Guardian’s outstanding broker marketing and sales support. Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

This episode features Denise Vance-Rodrigues, Vice President of Business Development for Canopy Health. She describes what makes the physician-owned regional carrier stand out. For one, their self-referral program makes it easy to access care throughout the Bay Area, which is a definite plus with so many people living and working in different cities. Canopy is unique in that you can purchase them through another carrier, namely UnitedHealthcare. She also describes some of Canopy’s innovative projects to improve members’ access to care. Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

This episode is a must-listen for all brokers who need to understand the latest COBRA changes. As many businesses reduce their workforce amid the COVID pandemic, a rush of laid off and furloughed employees are looking at their COBRA option. Jeff Strong, Sterling Administration Vice President of Sales and COBRA Supervisor, Anlo Hoang explain what makes an employee COBRA eligible. They also provide some examples of what the COBRA timeline extension looks like. COVID-19 FAQS for Participants and Beneficiaries: https://tinyurl.com/y9vcp7a2 Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

This episode features Michael Payton, Senior Vice President of Sales & Account Management and David McClintock, Vice President of New Sales of Choice Administrators. Tune in and learn what’s in store for Q3 and more. Find out what CaliforniaChoice is doing differently in the marketplace. They discuss how their wide variety of networks allows employers to put the power of decision in the hands of members. They also outline what CaliforniaChoice is doing to support brokers in serving their clients and how they’re helping members amid the pandemic. Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.

This episode features Dr. John Rott, a Kaiser Permanente® practicing pediatrician in San Diego and a Physician Director of the Southern California Permanente Medical Group. He gives a physician’s view of what makes Kaiser Permanente unique in the delivery of medicine. He also explains how Kaiser has evolved in recent years and the Kaiser Permanente School of Medicine, which is set to open in August. Please note that, due to COVID-19, much has changed as this episode was recorded in early March. Kaiser Permanente® School of Medicine Website: https://medschool.kp.org/about/some-key-features Kaiser Permanente® School of Medicine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUc4MgCC3R0u4Kf2rzlDhNg Topic ideas? Contact us at Intel@lisibroker.com.