Mastering Medicare Certifications: How Agents Can Conquer AHIP and Annual Certifications

For Medicare agents, success starts with preparations, and that includes staying current on annual certifications. Every year, AHIP (America's Health Insurance Plans) and carrier-specific recertifications are required to legally and compliantly sell Medicare Advantage and Part D Plans. While this can seem like a daunting task, having a plan and the proper support from your agency makes it manageable.

All About AHIP

How Long Does AHIP Take?

The AHIP Medicare exam typically takes most agents about 30 minutes to complete. It takes approximately two hours to thoroughly review the modules. Since AHIP is an online course, allowing you to review questions and training modules from the comfort of your own home, we suggest setting aside a full three hours to absorb all the information.

Keep in mind that taking the AHIP is not only necessary to sell Medicare Advantage, but it also serves as an excellent professional development opportunity that enhances ongoing insurance education and training. Additionally, you can apply it towards your annual CE requirements for an extra fee.

Who Needs AHIP Certification?

Most insurance companies mandate that you finish the AHIP Medicare training courses and pass the AHIP exam before you are ready to sell their Medicare Advantage plans. This ensures that you adhere to CMS regulations and comprehend the rules related to the plans you are selling. Compliance issues while selling Medicare Advantage plans impact the plan you are selling, so you must have your AHIP certification to sell.

AHIP Courses: What to Expect

To achieve AHIP certification, you must pass the Medicare and Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA) test, which has 50 questions and a two-hour time limit. A score of at least 90% is required, with up to three attempts allowed. It is recommended to fully understand the material before taking the test. Although you can pay for additional attempts, most carriers will not accept a passing score after three failures.

Here's how top-performing agents navigate AHIP and recertification:

1. Start Early

   Most AHIP Certifications open in late June. Don't wait-knocking it out early gives you more time to complete carrier certifications and focus on sales before AEP kicks off.

2. Carrier Discounts

   Many Medicare Advantage carriers offer AHIP discounts if you access the course through their portals. Not only do you save money, but your score is automatically shared with the carrier. At The Bedrock Group Advisors, we handle this process on your behalf.

3. Study The Material Thoroughly

   Even the most seasoned agents should review the updated training content each year. CMS guidelines change, and passing the first time avoids retakes and lost time.

4. Block Time for Carrier Certifications

   Each carrier has its training platform and required modules. It's essential to set aside a few hours each week to complete these gradually, or plan for time to knock it out. This approach allows you to continue working your leads while minimizing the time spent away from selling.

5. Track Your Progress

   Keep a spreadsheet or a checklist of your completed certifications. This helps you stay organized and ensures you're ready to sell when the time comes.

6. Lean on Your FMO

   At The Bedrock Group Advisors, we provide agent support, AHIP prep resources, reminders, and access and a plan to help you through the process with confidence.

Final Tip: Certification is the gateway to your Medicare sales season. By preparing early, staying organized, and working with the right FMO partner, you'll start AEP ready to serve clients compliantly and effectively.

If you need support with AHIP certifications or are seeking an agency home, you're in the right place. Contact The Bedrock Group Advisors by clicking the button below to gain access to tools, training, and year-round guidance.

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