April 23, 2025

​Delray Beach Florida, FL — Martin Tait and Better Health Consulting has been honored by the Health Insurance Marketplace® for enrolling over 500 consumers in qualified health plans during this Open Enrollment Period.

Due to Better Health’s success, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is recognizing them as an Elite Plus member of the 2025 Marketplace Circle of Champions. This award is given to the highest-enrolling agents and brokers and represents the top level in the Marketplace Circle of Champions program.

“We thank Martin Tait for his dedication to providing exceptional service and helping consumers access coverage,” said Peter Nelson, Deputy Administrator & Director at CMS. “Agents and brokers are important partners to CMS in our shared goal of helping expand access to coverage across the nation.”

Consumers who would like assistance applying for or enrolling in Marketplace coverage, or have questions about their existing coverage, can contact  Martin and Better Health Consulting at 1-800-866-4131.

CMS created the Marketplace Circle of Champions program to commemorate the hard work and commitment of Marketplace-registered agents and brokers throughout America. This award recognizes agents and brokers who have actively enrolled 20 or more © Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 4 consumers during the annual Open Enrollment Period, and Elite Plus status recognizes agents and brokers who have actively enrolled 500 or more consumers. Each year, thousands of agents and brokers reach the Marketplace Circle of Champions. ​

As we kick off 2025, navigating the health insurance landscape can feel overwhelming. With new regulations, plan changes, and evolving coverage options, staying informed is more important than ever. Here at Better Health Consulting’s The Health Hub, we’re breaking down the key trends and insights to help you make the best decisions for your health and wallet.

Premiums for health insurance have seen a gradual rise in recent years, and 2025 is no exception. The increase is largely due to factors like inflation, increased healthcare costs, and changes in government subsidies. To keep your premiums manageable:
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• Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first plan you see. Compare ACA plans, limited medical plans, and supplemental coverage to find the best fit.
• Consider Bundling: Combining dental, vision, and hearing coverage can save money and simplify your policy management.
• Stay on Top of Deadlines: Missing enrollment deadlines can mean paying higher premiums or missing out on coverage altogether.

As healthcare costs continue to surge, many consumers are turning to limited medical plans as a more affordable alternative to traditional health insurance. These plans are particularly beneficial for individuals who are generally healthy and primarily need coverage for routine care and preventive services.
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One standout option for 2025 is Sigma Care PLUS, offering reliable coverage at a competitive rate and paying out at 55%. Make sure to weigh the benefits and limitations of these plans against your specific needs.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) remains a crucial option for many Americans, particularly those who qualify for subsidies. However, with changing income thresholds and updated subsidy structures, it’s essential to recheck your eligibility annually.

With the cost of funerals and end-of-life expenses steadily rising, final expense insurance is becoming increasingly popular. This small policy can ease the financial burden on families during difficult times. It’s worth considering as part of a comprehensive coverage strategy.

Automation and AI are changing how people shop for insurance, with chatbots and virtual assistants guiding users through plan selection and enrollment. Staying up-to-date with digital tools can help you make faster and more informed decisions.

Health insurance doesn’t have to be confusing. At Better Health Consulting, we’re committed to helping you navigate your options and choose the right coverage for your unique needs. Contact us today to speak with one of our expert agents and get personalized assistance.
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Got questions or need advice? Drop a comment below or reach out directly — we’re here to help you thrive in 2025 and beyond!

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a significant update for millions of consumers seeking health insurance coverage through the HealthCare.gov Marketplace. To ensure greater access to high-quality, affordable health care coverage, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has extended the Open Enrollment deadline for January 1, 2025, coverage in the 31 states using HealthCare.gov.

Why This Matters
This extension underscores the administration’s commitment to making health care more accessible and ensuring that no one is left behind. It gives consumers more time to explore their options and make informed decisions about their health coverage for the coming year.

What Should You Do Now?
If you or someone you know is looking for health insurance, now is the time to act! The clock is ticking, and the extended deadline ensures just a few more days to secure comprehensive coverage for the new year.

Visit HealthCare.gov to review plans, get assistance, and enroll before the new deadline. Don’t wait until the last minute—ensure you and your family have the coverage you need for 2025!

For additional questions or support, email the Agent/Broker Help Desk at [email protected].
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Stay covered, stay informed!

Open Enrollment is here, and the clock is ticking! This is the time of year when you can secure the health insurance coverage you need for the upcoming year, but don’t wait too long--the deadline is November 15. Missing it could mean missing out on essential coverage or paying penalties.

Let’s dive into what you need to know about Open Enrollment, why it’s so important, and some interesting facts that might surprise you about health insurance.

Open Enrollment is the annual period when individuals can: 
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• Apply for new health insurance plans
• Renew their current plans
• Make changes to their coverage

This is your once-a-year opportunity to get coverage that fits your needs and budget. Outside of Open Enrollment, you can only sign up if you have a qualifying life event, like getting married, having a baby, or losing other coverage.

If you don’t enroll by November 15, you may face serious consequences, including:
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• No coverage until the next Open Enrollment period
• Potential penalties under certain state laws
• Out-of-pocket costs for medical expenses

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By acting now, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your health is protected starting January 1. Don’t leave your health to chance—get enrolled today!

Health insurance can seem like a maze, but these fun and informative facts might give you a fresh perspective:
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1. It’s Not Just for Emergencies
   Health insurance isn’t only about protecting you from catastrophic events. Many plans cover preventive services like annual checkups, vaccinations, and screenings at no extra cost.
2. Insurance First Became Popular in the 1930s
   Health insurance as we know it started in the 1930s with Blue Cross plans, originally designed to cover hospital stays.
3. The Average Hospital Stay Costs $10,400
   Without insurance, a single hospital stay can set you back over $10,000 on average. Health insurance helps shield you from these high costs.
4. Your ZIP Code Can Affect Your Premiums
   Where you live plays a big role in your health insurance premiums. Local healthcare costs, regulations, and demographics all contribute.
5. ACA Plans Must Cover 10 Essential Benefits
   Every Affordable Care Act (ACA) plan includes 10 essential health benefits, including maternity care, mental health services, and prescription drugs.

We know life gets busy, but missing the November 15 deadline could cost you big. At The Health Hub, we make it easy to explore your options and enroll in the perfect plan. Our agents are ready to help you every step of the way.
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Need assistance? Contact us today and let’s get your health coverage locked in before time runs out!

When people think about health insurance, they often see it as a confusing puzzle—lots of pieces, some of which don’t seem to fit. But what if we told you health insurance is more like building a custom home? At The Health Hub, we believe your plan should be designed specifically for you, just like your dream house. Let’s explore this analogy and see why choosing the right health coverage is all about creating something tailor-made for your life.

1. The Blueprint: Assessing Your Needs

Before building a home, you sit down with an architect to figure out exactly what you want and need. Health insurance works the same way. It all starts with asking the right questions:

• Do you need coverage for routine checkups or major medical events?
• How important are extras like dental, vision, or hearing coverage?
• What’s your budget?

Just like a blueprint guides the construction process, knowing your health needs helps build the foundation for the perfect plan.

2. Choosing the Right Materials: Picking the Right Benefits

In a house, you don’t skimp on materials that matter. You want strong walls, a reliable roof, and energy-efficient windows. Similarly, with health insurance, the benefits you choose are the “materials” of your plan. Think about:

• Prescription coverage for your medications
• Specialist access for unique health needs
• Hospital and emergency coverage for peace of mind

Cutting corners might seem cheaper, but it could cost you more down the line.

3. Custom Features: Adding Personal Touches

No two homes are alike, and your health plan shouldn’t be either. Once you’ve got the basics, it’s time to customize. Maybe you want:
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• Preventive care perks to stay ahead of health issues
• Low co-pays for frequent doctor visits
• Family coverage for everyone under one roof

These features make your plan as unique as your life.

4. The General Contractor: Your Agent

​In homebuilding, a skilled general contractor makes the process smooth and stress-free. At The Health Hub, our agents are your “contractors.” They know the ins and outs of health insurance, saving you from hours of frustration. We:

• Explain confusing terms like deductibles and coinsurance
• Compare plans to find the best fit
• Handle the details so you don’t have to

With the right agent, navigating health insurance is easier than ever.

5. Inspection and Maintenance: Reviewing Your Plan

Just like a home inspection ensures quality, it’s important to review your health plan regularly. Life changes—whether it’s a new job, a growing family, or shifting health priorities—mean your insurance might need adjustments. We’re here to help you check for gaps and upgrade as needed.

Your Dream Health Plan Is Just a Call Away

Building a custom home takes time and expertise, and so does finding the perfect health insurance plan. At The Health Hub, we specialize in creating plans that fit like a glove, no matter where life takes you.

Ready to start building your health coverage? Contact us today and let’s lay the foundation for your healthiest, happiest future.

In the fast-paced world of health insurance sales, success on the phone depends on more than just having the right product or script. It comes down to the mindset of the person on the other end of the line. There’s a stark difference between a closer and an order taker—and this difference can make or break a business.
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At Better Health, we’re building a team of closers because we know that’s what it takes to succeed. Let’s dive into what sets these two mentalities apart and why adopting the closer mindset is essential for your growth and ours.

An order taker is exactly what it sounds like: someone who waits for the client to tell them what they need. They’re passive, reactive, and lack the initiative to guide the conversation. Here are some key traits of an order taker:
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1. Waits for the Client to Lead: They let the prospect dictate the flow of the call, rather than taking charge.
2. Answers Questions Without Strategy: They respond to inquiries but fail to uncover the deeper needs or pain points driving the client’s call.
3. Avoids Pushback: When faced with objections like, “I need to think about it” or “I need to speak with my wife,” they end the call instead of addressing the concern.
4. Lacks Confidence: They see themselves as information providers rather than problem solvers or decision influencers.

While order takers may close some deals, they leave countless opportunities—and revenue—on the table.

Closers, on the other hand, are the drivers of the conversation. They’re focused, confident, and proactive. A closer isn’t just selling a product; they’re solving problems and creating value. Here’s what makes a closer stand out:
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1. Takes Control of the Call: From the moment the prospect picks up, a closer sets the tone, guides the conversation, and positions themselves as the expert.
2. Asks the Right Questions: Closers dig deep to uncover the “why” behind the prospect’s call. They ask about pain points, budget, and concerns to find the perfect solution.
3. Handles Objections with Ease: Objections aren’t roadblocks for a closer—they’re opportunities. A closer knows how to address concerns, redirect doubts, and build trust.
4. Creates Urgency: Closers instill a sense of “now” by explaining time-sensitive benefits or deadlines, motivating the client to take action.
5. Confidently Asks for the Sale: A closer doesn’t hesitate to seal the deal. They approach the end of the call with confidence, making it easy for the client to say “yes.”

In today’s competitive marketplace, being an order taker simply won’t cut it. Prospects have endless options, and it’s up to us to stand out by demonstrating why our solution is the best choice. That requires the closer mentality.
Here’s why it matters:
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• Higher Conversion Rates: Closers turn hesitant prospects into loyal clients.
• More Revenue: By addressing objections and creating urgency, closers secure deals that order takers would lose.
• Better Client Experience: A closer ensures the prospect feels heard, understood, and valued.

If you’re ready to level up, here’s how to embrace the closer mentality:

• Focus on the First Seven Seconds: Set the tone for the call and establish yourself as the expert.
• Listen More, Pitch Less: The best closers are great listeners. Understand your client’s needs before presenting a solution.
• Practice Rebuttals: Be prepared for common objections and practice turning them into opportunities.
• Exude Confidence: Believe in what you’re selling, and that confidence will be contagious.

At BHC, we need everyone to step into the closer mentality. Order takers may get by, but closers thrive—and that’s the mindset that will drive our team to the top. Let’s make every call count.
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Which mindset are you choosing today?

In the fast-paced world of insurance sales, efficiency and clarity are crucial. Every call presents an opportunity to help someone secure essential health coverage, and every response should bring you closer to closing. But there’s a common pitfall that can interrupt that momentum—long-winded explanations. While providing valuable information is key, answering simple questions with concise, clear responses is just as essential to maintaining control and guiding the prospect along the path to the sale.

One area we can all improve on is avoiding lengthy answers to straightforward questions. When a prospect asks something that calls for a simple “yes” or “no,” keep it short and sweet. Long explanations can dilute the authority of your message, slow down the conversation, and give the prospect room to lose focus. Instead, when faced with direct questions, respond confidently and concisely. Remember, every word you use should serve a purpose—moving the call closer to the close.

Let’s revisit the basics of Straight Line Persuasion. This method is about guiding the prospect from introduction to close on a direct, efficient path. It’s a structured approach that minimizes detours and maximizes control. By sticking to the straight line, you keep the conversation focused, eliminate tangents, and ensure that each call moves forward with purpose.
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When pitching, remember that our prospects need health insurance—this is not just a hypothetical solution; it’s a necessity. Assume the sale with confidence from the moment you start, and believe that you’re there to help. Maintaining this focus and confidence reassures prospects that they’re talking to an expert. It’s your authority and professionalism that guide them, and the best way to demonstrate that is by staying on the straight line.

You are the licensed agent, the professional. This means that in every conversation, you hold the knowledge, expertise, and control. Approach each interaction with confidence, assuming the sale from the outset. A “buy or die” mentality—driven by empathy, knowledge, and persistence—keeps you on track to close.
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In practice, this means taking charge of each call, navigating the conversation smoothly through the application process, and removing any uncertainty for the prospect. Remember, they’re reaching out for health insurance. Make it simple for them to say yes by conveying authority and keeping responses tight.

In sales, efficiency isn’t just about speed—it’s about precision. Every answer, every pitch, and every rebuttal should keep the call moving. Staying on point requires mental discipline, which also translates to energy and enthusiasm. Prospects can sense confidence in your tone, so channel your energy into every call, keep your responses on target, and align each conversation with the outcome we’re aiming for.
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One of the best responses? “Yes, you’ll have coverage for that.” It’s short, reassuring, and exactly what the prospect needs to hear. Every “yes” keeps them on track, reassures them, and clears away doubt.

Let’s maintain our momentum, our energy, and our focus. Assume the sale, stay on the straight line, and keep calls moving forward. By refining our communication and keeping responses concise, we’re setting ourselves—and our prospects—up for success.
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With confidence, clarity, and a laser focus on each outcome, we’ve got this. Let’s keep closing those deals—let’s go!

In sales, it’s common to hear a prospect say they need to discuss the decision with their family or spouse before signing up. While respecting the buyer’s need for time, our experience shows that we can help prospects move forward by setting them up for success rather than letting the opportunity stall. Below is a strategy to help you keep momentum going and secure more applications, even when you’re faced with this common hesitation.

When a prospect says they’re “10000% not signing today” because they need to talk it over, here’s an approach that keeps the door open without pushing them beyond their comfort zone:

1. Guide Them Through the Application: Take them through the application process as usual, but set a post-date for Friday (or a similar timeframe). Explain to the prospect that this gives them time to discuss it with their family while keeping things efficient on their end.
   
2. Highlight the Benefits of the Post-Date: Let the client know that post-dating their application:
   
   • Locks in Their Rate: Rates can fluctuate, and locking in today’s rate can protect them against potential increases. Emphasize that this is a proactive way to save.
   • Saves Time: Remind them that by completing the application now, they won’t need to spend another hour on the phone if they choose to proceed. They’ll have until Friday to make a final decision, which keeps things flexible.
3. Offer an Easy Opt-Out: Reassure them that if they decide against moving forward, they can simply call back to cancel before the post-date. This takes the pressure off but also makes it clear that the process is moving forward unless they decide otherwise.
   

Prospects often hesitate as a way to buy time, even if they’re genuinely interested. When we make the next steps easy, many will go along with the application rather than drop off. As KG said, "No one is going to call back, and the chances of getting them back on the phone are minimal." So, by submitting a post-dated application, we’re simply making it easier for both us and the client if they ultimately choose to proceed.

When someone says they “need to talk it over,” there’s a good chance they may have underlying concerns. The post-dated application approach can bring these to light and allows us to address any deeper objections they might have. As KG pointed out, about 50% of these objections may not be the full truth, so guiding them through the app can help uncover what’s really holding them back.

In cases where a post-date application isn’t feasible, try to schedule a specific date and time for a callback. Many of these prospects do have genuine interest but just need that final nudge. Don’t let these leads go to waste; leads are an investment, and even a small chance of closing is worth the effort.

The more apps we submit, the more deals we’re likely to close. Our pipeline works best when we maximize every opportunity, whether it’s through post-dating an app, setting a callback, or chasing down potential leads. Leaving these prospects hanging isn’t just leaving money on the table—it’s a missed opportunity.

Let’s work our pipeline and ensure nothing slips through the cracks. More apps mean more deals, and as we know, we miss all the shots we don’t take. So, let’s keep pushing, following up, and securing those wins!

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, regulations around customer communication are also changing. One key update on the horizon is the introduction of a 1-to-1 consent requirement, set to take effect on January 27, 2025. This change is designed to protect consumer privacy and ensure that healthcare and insurance providers follow the latest standards for outreach. Here’s a breakdown of what this new requirement entails, how it impacts health insurance providers, and what you need to know to stay compliant.

The 1-to-1 consent requirement means that, starting January 27, 2025, all businesses and organizations must obtain explicit, individual consent from potential customers before engaging in outreach that involves:
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• Automated Telephone Dialing Systems (ATDS)
• Pre-recorded or artificial voices
• Text messaging platforms

This regulation, which falls under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), mandates that consent must be obtained individually and directly from each consumer. This is intended to prevent unsolicited automated calls or messages, ensuring that consumers maintain control over who can contact them.

The 1-to-1 consent requirement is aimed at enhancing privacy and protecting consumers from unwanted solicitation. In the healthcare and insurance industries, where sensitive personal information is frequently handled, obtaining explicit consent ensures that companies are only contacting those who have shown genuine interest in their services. For consumers, it’s a step toward reducing unwanted interruptions and increasing trust in healthcare providers.

To meet the new 1-to-1 consent standard, health insurance providers must adapt their communication methods in the following ways:
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1. Individualized Consent: Before reaching out to potential clients, providers must obtain direct consent specific to each contact. This goes beyond general opt-ins or lead lists and requires a clear and individualized consent form, preferably collected through methods that can be easily documented.


2. Clear Documentation: Maintaining records of consent is crucial for compliance. Providers will need to store and manage consent forms that show each prospect has granted permission for contact. This documentation should be stored securely and should be easily accessible in case of an audit or inquiry.


3. Revised Outreach Methods: For automated or mass outreach, additional safeguards must be in place. Health insurance providers using automated calls, artificial or pre-recorded voices, or texting platforms will need to ensure that each contact has granted specific consent to receive such communications.


4. Hashed Data and Scrubbing: For providers using data systems that ping or cross-reference customer information for deduplication or scrubbing, hashed data should be utilized to protect privacy while complying with TCPA regulations. This approach can also help reduce post-reject rates by filtering out consumers who have not consented to contact.

Health insurance providers should take the following steps to ensure they’re ready for the January 27 deadline:
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• Audit Your Consent Processes: Review your current procedures to ensure they meet the 1-to-1 consent requirements. Ensure that your systems collect individualized, explicit consent, particularly if you rely on ATDS or automated outreach methods.


• Update Your Consent Forms and Scripts: Make any necessary adjustments to consent forms, call scripts, or digital forms. Ensure that consumers clearly understand what they’re consenting to and that this information is documented properly.


• Implement Hashed Data Practices: Consider implementing hashed data for deduplication and scrubbing to keep client data secure and reduce the risk of contacting non-consenting individuals. This method can also streamline data handling and lower post-reject rates, improving compliance and customer trust.


• Partner with Compliance Experts: If your team needs assistance with adapting to these new regulations, consider working with a compliance expert. Many organizations specialize in TCPA compliance and can help ensure that your systems and practices are fully aligned with the new standards.

The shift to 1-to-1 consent will also influence how health insurance providers approach marketing and customer engagement. Since compliance requires direct consent from each prospect, providers may need to refine their lead generation strategies, focusing more on creating value-driven content and fostering organic connections that encourage potential clients to opt in.
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By building relationships and providing value through educational content, health insurance providers can still reach their target audiences while adhering to the new guidelines. This approach not only aids compliance but also enhances the quality of customer interactions, which can lead to higher conversion rates and improved customer satisfaction.

The 1-to-1 consent requirement introduces significant changes to how health insurance providers communicate with consumers. By January 27, 2025, providers must ensure they have obtained individualized consent before initiating contact through automated or pre-recorded systems. Compliance with these regulations will be essential, not only to avoid penalties but also to establish trust and transparency with prospective clients.

At Better Health, we’re here to support you as you adapt to these changes. Our team is committed to helping you understand and implement best practices for compliance, ensuring that your outreach efforts remain effective, ethical, and aligned with industry standards.
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Stay tuned for more updates on compliance strategies and tips for building consumer trust in an evolving healthcare landscape.

Navigating health insurance can be challenging, especially with so much misinformation out there. Let’s set the record straight by debunking 10 common health insurance myths, so you can make informed decisions about your coverage.

1. Myth: “I Don’t Need Health Insurance Because I’m Healthy”
While it may seem like a good idea to skip health insurance if you're healthy, unexpected medical expenses can arise at any time. Health insurance provides a safety net for sudden illness, injury, or emergencies.

2. Myth: “The Cheapest Plan Is Always the Best”
A low premium might look attractive, but it often comes with higher deductibles or limited provider networks. Balancing cost with coverage is key to finding the best plan for your needs.

3. Myth: “All Health Insurance Plans Cover the Same Services”
Health insurance plans vary widely. Some cover mental health, prescription drugs, or maternity care, while others do not. Always review a plan’s benefits before enrolling.

4. Myth: “Health Insurance Doesn’t Cover Preventive Care”
Many health plans cover preventive services, such as vaccinations, screenings, and annual check-ups, at no additional cost. Preventive care can help you stay healthy and catch issues early.

5. Myth: “You Can’t Change Your Plan Outside Open Enrollment”
In some cases, you can switch plans if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to life events like marriage, childbirth, or job loss.

6. Myth: “Telehealth Isn’t Covered by Insurance”
With telemedicine on the rise, many insurers now cover virtual consultations. Check if your plan includes telehealth benefits – it can save time and money!

7. Myth: “Employer Health Insurance Is Always Better than Marketplace Plans”
While employer plans are common, Marketplace plans may offer better options for self-employed individuals or those in need of specific coverage. Compare both to make the best choice.

8. Myth: “Health Insurance Only Covers Basic Medical Needs”
From mental health to alternative therapies, many insurance plans offer additional services beyond basic care. It’s worth exploring these benefits!

9. Myth: “If You Don’t Use Insurance, You Lose It”
Many health plans offer annual wellness perks, even if you don’t make major claims. Check for benefits like gym discounts, wellness apps, or preventive care reimbursements.

10. Myth: “Health Insurance Won’t Save Me Money”
​Without insurance, out-of-pocket costs for unexpected medical needs can be overwhelming. Health insurance helps cap costs, providing financial peace of mind.

Understanding health insurance isn’t easy, but knowing the truth behind these myths can help you make informed decisions. Visit [Your Website Name/Link] to explore more tips, guides, and resources to help you get the most out of your health insurance coverage.