Helping Employees (and HR) Understand Medicare

For many companies, the number of employees over age 65 continues to increase. And with that increase comes the need to provide employees, as well as HR, with a base understanding of Medicare as part of employee wellbeing efforts.

 

Offer Educational Seminars on Medicare Basics

While we may think of Medicare as a topic for only older employees nearing age 65, its important for employees of all ages to become familiar with how it works. Whether its part of planning for retirement or helping one's family members who are already enrolled, having a base knowledge can help employees properly navigate the rules for themselves and others.

Employers should offer Medicare educational seminars on a regular basis. There are a lot of misconceptions about Medicare eligibility and enrollment which can needlessly complicate the process and potentially cause individuals to miss out on the opportunities Medicare offers to those who are still working.

 

Medicare-Educated HR Professionals Can Help Employees Avoid Pitfalls

HR professionals walk a fine line when it comes to Medicare. While they are prohibited from specifically recommending anyone leave the employer group plan and go to Medicare, they do have the latitude to provide education about Medicare.

HR professionals should develop a base understanding of the rules so when employees come to them with questions, they have the ability to provide objective responses without steering them one way or another. Likewise, its important to have an outside Medicare insurance professional to defer questions if the employee is looking for more specific information.

 

Guidelines for Evaluating Medicare Enrollment While Continuing Employment

If an employee is approaching age 65 and plans to continue working, its important for them to evaluate whether they should stay on their employer group plan or consider enrolling in Medicare. Having an objective set of guidelines to share with employees helps take the mystery and anxiety out of the evaluation process and sets them up for success with Medicare.

 

Need a Strategic Partner to Help Educate Employees About Medicare?

With a background in employee benefits and now serving as a Medicare-certified agent, I have the expertise to educate employees on Medicare and help them navigate the enrollment process.

Please contact me if you would like to provide Medicare education sessions to your employees, to your HR group and/or you would like me to become a strategic partner for Medicare questions. There is no cost for my services and it can become another value-added element of your employee wellbeing efforts.

Chris Laraway
CGLaraway Insurance Strategies LLC
317-345-6034
chris.laraway@cglins.com
www.cglins.com