Episode 41 COBRA & the American Rescue Plan Act with Jeff Strong of Sterling Administration
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?
Episode 40 Delta Dental’s Exciting New 2021 Portfolio
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
2021 Portfolio Video
2021 FAQ
Delta Value Adds
Broker Rewards Program
Smile Way Wellness
Episode 39 Catching Up with CaliforniaChoice
In this episode, Michael Payton, SVP, Sales & Account Management, CHOICE Administrators and David McClintock, Vice President of Sales, catch us up on CaliforniaChoice in 2021. We talk about the website revamp, review underwriting changes, and get a couple of hints at coming expansions. As always with CaliforniaChoice, Michael and David talk about how their eye is on making the process easy and the choices wide.
Episode 38 Kaiser Permanente® - What’s New and What’s Coming + COVID Updates
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.
Read more:
"Kaiser Permanente launches first coronavirus vaccine trial"
"Kaiser Permanente joins late-stage COVID-19 vaccine study"
"Biden picks 3 coordinators for Covid-19 response"
Episode 37 Cigna + Oscar: Plans Positioning & Value Adds
In this episode, we get to know our new carrier partner – Cigna + Oscar -- a little better. Amwins Connect Bay Area Sales Reps Jessica Carroll and Tia Colzani join C+O’s Sales Director – West Region Michael Lujan and Cigna+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.
Episode 36 Sterling Administration: 5500 Compliance Drill Down
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.
Episode 35 Anthem Blue Cross: Specialty Stand Outs
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
Specialty 2020 Broker Bonus
Dental Premium Promotion
Episode 34 Get Ready for the Special Enrollment Period
In this episode, Magan Eubanks, Amwins Connect 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.
Episode 33 Anthem Blue Cross ˗ Exciting Things on the Horizon for Q1
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.
Episode 32 Top Five Things that Trip Up Groups During Q4
In this episode, Jenifer Rossi, Team Manager, New Business Department at Amwins Connect, 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.
Episode 31 MetLife ˗ A Comprehensive Portfolio for Employers
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
Episode 30 Our Dedicated Ease Resources: Making Enrollment Easier Than Ever This Q4
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. Amwins Connect has an outstanding library, including plan rates. And the Amwins Connect 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.
Episode 29 Sutter Health Plus - Provider Driven Health Care for Northern California
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. Amwins Connect Regional Sales Manager, Sam Siders is the guest host for this episode.
About Us Flyer
Episode 28 Western Health Advantage – Care Rooted in Community
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 Advantage 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
WHA Network Brochure-Prime 2020
WHA Sales Brochure 2020 v10.9.19
Episode 27 Broker-Friendly Payroll from Heartland
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
Episode 26 Introducing Our Partnership with Humana
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
Humana Extended Annual max
All Line Product Guide
Enhanced Preventive Care
Episode 25 Sharp Health Plan – California’s Highest Member Rated Health Insurance
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.
Episode 24 Aetna: Delivering Benefits That Are Local, Flexible, Integrated, and Affordable
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
Aetna Whole Health - Southern California HMO Network PDF
Attain App PDF
Broker Bonus PDF
Minute Clinic PDF
Episode 23 MediExel: The Next Generation in Crossborder Healthcare
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 (Video)
Expanded RX Program (PDF)
Episode 22 Introducing Our Partnership with Guardian
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.
Episode 21 Canopy Health: Reinventing Healthcare in the Bay Area
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.
Episode 20 Your COBRA Answers Amidst COVID-19: Sterling Administration
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
Episode 19 CaliforniaChoice: Q3 Insights & Beyond
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.
Episode 18 Kaiser Permanente®: A Physicians View
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
Kaiser Permanente® School of Medicine YouTube Channel
Episode 17 What You Need to Know About AB-5 Worker Status
Michael Goldfarb of Guardian HR discusses AB 5 ̶ a new California law that could reclassify millions of independent contractors as employees. He explains how it will affect the benefits market, what employers need to know about AB 5, and penalties for misclassifying an employee.
Episode 16 Sexual Harassment Training Requirements in California
Joy Justus, ThinkHR Senior VP of Channel Sales, offers a comprehensive look at California’s sexual harassment training requirements. She covers best practices, important deadlines, out-of-state employees, filings, investigations, and onboarding. She also explains what brokers need to know and explains how ThinkHR’s Workplace Harassment Prevention Package offers a fully compliant solution.
Episode 15 ERISA Basics and How to Become an Expert
Jeff Strong of Sterling Administration offers a 360-degree ERISA overview. He explains what clients are asking of brokers, increased compliance under the ACA, penalties, required documents, as well as issues related to 401(k)s and group life insurance.
Episode 14 COVID-19 Carrier Update
Two product experts from our Intel team give the latest updates on how carriers are responding to COVID-19. They get into carrier responses from all sides including grace periods for premium payments, waiting periods for rehires, and special enrollment periods.
Episode 13 How the ICHRA Can Offer Key Solutions to Employers
In this episode, Lisa Collins of PrimePay gives us a deeper dive into the new individual coverage HRAs (ICHRAs). She explains the advantages for employees and employers and the types of groups that would most benefit from an ICHRA.
Episode 12 A Comprehensive Overview of the Individual Coverage HRA (ICHRA)
In this episode, Bob Radecki of Benefit Comply rejoins us to discuss new rules on ICHRAs - Individual Coverage HRAs. He explains how they work, eligibility requirements, and availability for employers.
Episode 11 How Carriers Are Responding to COVID-19
In this episode, two product experts from our Intel team talk about the carrier response to COVID-19. For brokers who are getting bombarded with questions about the coronavirus, this is an essential briefing. We'll keep you posted as carrier actions evolve.
Episode 10 COBRA Compliance Solutions
In this episode, Michelle Martynuik of ASi Administrative Solutions offers a clear COBRA overview including applicable lines of coverage, the difference between Cal-COBRA and COBRA, filing timelines and penalties, and the services that ASi offers to help employers stay compliant.
Episode 9 The 2020 Compliance Landscape
We’re kicking off our compliance series with Bob Radecki of Benefit Comply. He gives us an aerial view of the compliance landscape. We discuss how the benefits industry and the role of the broker have changed due to increasing laws and regulations. We look at what changes are on the horizon and even ask Bob how this election year may affect compliance requirements. It’s one of many simple and digestible compliance briefs that we’ll be featuring over the next several weeks. We're bringing you the resources to help you serve as your clients’ trusted advisor so compliance doesn't have to be overwhelming.
Episode 8 Principal (Ancillary)
In this episode, we talk with Ron Altbaum at Principal Life Insurance Company about their suite of ancillary products, including unique EPO dental options and networks that work for members. We talk about Principal’s full set of solutions for making sure members are best able to access care. And we look at their philosophy for consistently low renewal rates.
Episode 7 ACA Compliance Solution Services (ACACSS)
In episode 7, we tackle very timely compliance topics with Silvia Marroquin, Glenn Davidow, and Michael Davidow of ACA Compliance Solution Services (ACACSS). Critical compliance deadlines are coming up soon! March 2, 2020 is the deadline for companies to distribute the 1095 tax forms to employees, and March 31, 2020 is the deadline to E-File to IRS. They explain what 1095 reporting is, why it’s important, and what you need to know. We’ll cover the suite of solutions that ACACSS offers your clients. They take on the compliance burden so you can focus on growing your book of business.
Episode 6 CoPower (Ancillary)
In this episode, we talk with CoPower’s Rodney Mattos about their full ancillary portfolio. We look at how CoPower ONE is a curated product offering brand name benefits to small groups. Rodney explains how CoPower’s portal Empower helps groups and brokers manage their group changes quickly. And we take a deep dive into CoPower’s value adds, including a prescription discount card and Benefit Hub discounts.
Episode 5 Cigna (Large Group Medical)
In this episode, we talk with Ron Jordan at Cigna, who talks about how they are working on being a leader in a whole health approach. We take a look at Cigna’s network and how they identify key hospitals. Cigna also works not only to coordinate care but also to link members to local support programs to assist them through big issues.
Episode 4 Oscar (Medical)
In this episode, we talk with Oscar’s Michael Lujan. We take a look at how Oscar walks the member through healthcare with their concierge service on every plan and their free and unlimited telemed. Oscar offers an EPO alternative to the market in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
Episode 3 UnitedHealthCare (Medical)
In our conversation with UnitedHealthcare’s Amy Dalton and Allen Patrick, we talk about the personalized and simplified experience of the Harmony Network. We take a look at UHC’s coordinated care program, Advocate4Me. Finally, we take a deep dive into UHC’s triple value prop – better health, better experience, and better cost control. With Choice Simplified, employers can control costs and employees can pick the right plan for their needs while taking advantage of UHC’s rich member programs.
Episode 2 Covered California for Small Business (Medical)
In this episode, we talk with Dan Tyler at Covered California for Small Business about what makes them unique in the small group market. With health care being so personal, CCSB makes it easier for employers to not worry about plan selection for their employees. They also empower employees to select the plans that meet their needs. With Oscar joining the marketplace in 2020, CCSB offers even more choice. We also take a look at the new capabilities of CCSB’s broker portal and the new unique tax credit tool.
Episode 1 Anthem Blue Cross (Medical)
In our inaugural episode, we chat with Jack Lyons* and Mark Ciciarelli at Anthem Blue Cross. Anthem discusses the power of combining medical and ancillary for a full medical history to take care of the whole person. Narrow networks are the hot topic. Anthem discusses what they do differently to curate their networks to meet local needs. We also take a deep dive into Anthem’s Care Coordinator program to make accessing complex care during a crisis easy for the member as well as finding out how they are leveraging technology to make care simple.
*This episode was recorded in November 2019. We are excited to welcome Jack Lyons as Amwins Connect Director of Sales.
