The annual election period is one of the busiest times of the year for Medicare agents. Reviewing your technology now can help you streamline enrollments, improve client service and reduce administrative work before the rush begins. Use this checklist to evaluate whether your Medicare tech stack is ready for AEP.
Quoting and Enrollment Tools
Modern quoting and enrollment platforms can reduce administrative work, improve accuracy and help agents serve more clients during the busiest weeks of AEP. If you aren’t using a quoting and enrollment tool, or if you’re not happy with the one you’re using, consider upgrading ahead of the busy AEP season.
Customer Relationship Management Platform
A strong customer relationship management (CRM) helps agents deliver consistent service, identify follow-up opportunities and maintain documentation for compliance. You can use your CRM to store information, track sales and schedule follow-ups so nothing slips through the cracks. If you’re unhappy with your CRM setup, consider whether an upgrade could help you deliver excellent, attentive customer service this AEP and in the months that follow.
Mileage Tracking Apps
Self-employed agents can write off business expenses, including expenses associated with driving to appointments. But there’s a catch – you have to track your miles carefully. Mileage tracking apps make this easy. There are many options to choose from, including both paid and free options. Options to consider include MileIQ and Stride.
Expense Trackers
In addition to mileage, you’ll want to keep track of all your other business expenses so you can maximize your tax deductions. Expense tracking apps can help you stay organized. There are robust options like QuickBooks and budget-friendly options like Wave.
Laptops and Tablets
Don’t neglect your physical devices when you upgrade your tech stack. An old laptop or tablet could slow you down this AEP, especially if it’s starting to freeze or it takes a long time to load. If you haven’t replaced your devices in a while, consider whether it’s time to do so.
Home Internet
If you work from home a lot, you need a reliable internet connection. You don’t want the internet to cut out while you’re in the middle of a video meeting with a client or when you’re trying to submit an enrollment.
If your internet is spotty, there are a couple of things you can do. First, check your router. You may need a more powerful router that can handle the number of internet-connected devices you use. Second, check your internet plan. You may be able to switch to a better plan, or you may find better options with a different internet provider.
Generative AI
Many insurance agents are adopting generative AI right now.
It’s important to be cautious. Always verify AI outputs for accuracy and compliance, and avoid uploading sensitive information into platforms that don’t guarantee data security. With this in mind, you can use generative AI to help you brainstorm marketing ideas, conduct market research, create marketing plans, and draft marketing materials. Popular generative AI tools include ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude and Gemini.
Do you need help getting ready for AEP? A strong tech stack is only part of AEP success. Learn how PTT Financial supports agents.