December 30, 2015
As many Illinois residents are finding out, buying health insurance during the final month of open enrollment can be one stressful endeavor. Hundreds of thousands of people all trying to get through to carriers at once, with just as much traffic on the healthcare marketplace website. This can result in outrageously long wait times, technology failures and more stress than any of us should have to endure. Even more concerning, the time needed to compare different plan options exceeds what most people have available.
And… in the unfortunate event that you make a mistake on your application, you can't change your new plan until the following open enrollment period. All things considered, it just makes sense to let a qualified agent help you through the process. Here are just a few reasons to make the call.
Agents Live and Work Where You Do
Generally speaking, most local health insurance agents live where you live, work where you work, and take pride in being a part of the community. This allows for a better understanding of your realistic needs, local hospital networks, specialists and much more.
Significantly Faster Response
When you partner with a local agent, you'll immediately notice the difference in service quality. Calls get answered on the first try, there are no long wait times and, in many cases, they can quickly resolve carrier-related issues when you're unable to get through.
More Personalized Service
When you buy health insurance over a website or phone, you're allowing yourself to be labeled as an account number. In contrast, working with a local agent affords you the title of valued customer. This puts a whole new level of respect on the situation and benefits you directly.
Less Chance of Error
As mentioned above, if you make a mistake or simple oversight on your application, it could end up haunting you all year. Changes are nearly impossible to make during closed enrollment, and working with an agent is a sure-fire way to ensure that everything's in order before submitting.
No Fees for Professional Assistance
We obviously can't speak for every health insurance agency out there, but the vast majority do not charge any fess for their services. It's also worth mentioning that premiums you find online or over the phone are exactly what you'll pay with a broker.
Expanded Coverage Options
Starting from scratch means having to sort through hundreds of options and carriers and coverage details, and we all know how long that can take. A broker can quickly and accurately identify the best range of plans for you, and show you options you might not have considered initially.
Faster Resolution of Problems
If you'd tried calling the carriers during high call-volume periods, you're sure to appreciate a local agent's ability to rapidly resolve common challenges. Whether it's a billing issue, replacement cards or assistance with open claims, having an agent on your side can expedite service immensely.
Avoid the Stress and Call an Agent Who Genuinely Cares
In the spirit of being brutal honest, do you really think that some random phone operator is going to care about you after the call ends? Of course not. But when it comes to your family's healthcare, you need to know that the person on the other end is looking out for your best interests.
Spare yourself of all the unnecessary stress during open enrollment, and contact Premier in Lisle for free, professional assistance. Our staff of licensed agents can help with new plans, policy modifications, healthcare subsidies and much more. Give us a call at 800-369-0287 to get started or schedule an appointment.