CMS Withdraws Changes to Disaster/Emergency SEP Process.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued an important update regarding the Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for individuals affected by a Government Entity-Declared Disaster or Other Emergency. Previously, CMS announced that beginning on April 1, 2025, beneficiaries would need to contact 1-800-MEDICARE to access the Disaster/Emergency SEP. However, CMS retracted this change and indicated that further guidance will be provided at a later date.
What This Means for You.
This update will minimize disruption for both agents and beneficiaries, meaning there are no changes to how you assist clients using this SEP. Here are a few key points to remember:
- The earlier requirement for beneficiaries to call 1-800-MEDICARE in order to use the Disaster/Emergency SEP will no longer take effect on April 1, 2025.
- Agents should continue to accept applications using the Disaster/Emergency SEP as they have been doing.
- Current enrollment forms and plan materials referencing the Disaster/Emergency SEP remain valid and can continue to be used.
Please stay tuned for additional updates as CMS releases more information. If you have questions or encounter issues with enrollment forms, please contact the Medicare Advantage Agent Support (MAAS) line at 801-442-7320 or email MAAS@selecthealth.org.
Select a Primary Care Provider (PCP) at Enrollment.
When enrolling a client in a Select Health Medicare plan, it is important to choose a Primary Care Provider (PCP). This step ensures that the client has a designated doctor for their healthcare needs and helps facilitate a smooth transition into the plan.
Choose a Doctor, Not a Nurse Practitioner.
While nurse practitioners (NPs) provide excellent care, they work under the supervision of a physician. Be sure to select a doctor (MD or DO) as the PCP to avoid system mismatches and ensure proper alignment.
Need Help Finding a Provider?
If you’re having trouble locating a provider or need assistance, the Medicare Advantage Agent Support Line is here to help. You can call 801-442-7320 or email MAAS@selecthealth.org. Feel free to reach out for guidance.
Kroger Boost Updates – What Agents Need to Know.
Starting April 10, Kroger is updating its base-level Kroger Boost membership. The $59 plan offered to Select Health Medicare + Kroger (HMO) plan members will be rebranded as Kroger Boost Essential and will increase to $69 per year.
Key Points for Agents:
- No Action Required – Agents do not need to take any steps to accommodate this change.
- Current Members Are Covered – Select Health Medicare + Kroger (HMO) plan members who have already purchased their Kroger Boost membership for the year remain unchanged.
- Updated Flex Card Funds for All Members – We are increasing the available funds to $69 for Select Health Medicare + Kroger (HMO) plan members who have not yet used their Kroger Boost benefit. This update applies to all members in the future, including those who enroll after April 10.
This change ensures eligible Select Health Medicare + Kroger (HMO) plan members can continue enjoying their Kroger Boost membership without any disruption.
If your clients have questions about using their Benefits MasterCard Prepaid Flex Card, please encourage them to contact Select Health Member Services at 855-442-9900 (TTY: 711) for support.
For inquiries related to the Boost program, members can contact Kroger Customer Service at 1-833-557-4278.
Health Coaching.
Encourage your Select Health Medicare Clients on the Kroger Benefits plan to enroll in Health Coaching, a health and wellness program included with their plan. Members will work with a coach to reach personal health goals like increasing energy, reducing stress, and managing chronic conditions. They will also work together to maximize the value of their Kroger grocery allowance.
Your clients can enroll using the Health Coaching form, or they can call Medicare member services at 855-442-9900 (TTY: 711) for help.
Exciting Updates to the Select Health Medicare Healthy Living Program!
We’re enhancing our Healthy Living program with new incentives to encourage members to prioritize their health. These changes include expanded rewards for preventive services, screenings, and condition-specific tests, making it easier for members to manage their well-being proactively.
Key Updates:
- New incentives have been added for completing essential preventive services and screenings.
- Members who qualify for these incentives will receive funds on their Benefits MasterCard Prepaid Flex Card under the Healthy Living purse.
- The changes are retroactive, meaning that if a member has already completed one of the incentive activities at any time this year, they will receive the reward.
Encourage your clients to take advantage of these benefits and maximize their rewards! To view the complete list of Healthy Living incentive rewards, visit selecthealth.org/medicare/healthyliving.
