As the AEP slowly approaches agents like you are getting ready for the selling season. Whether its the product certifications, getting contracted with the hottest companies in your area, or building up a lead portfolio everyone is busy. How can you use your time wisely as we patiently wait for October to hit? One way is to knock out that pesky test that all agents are required to take the AHIP Exam. AHIP(America’s Health Insurance Plans) requires all MA sellers to go through their training each year. As a refresher to new and old agents alike, today we will go over what the AHIP is.

What is AHIP?

AHIP’s mission is to be an effective advocate for a workable legislative and regulatory environment at the federal and state levels in which our members can advance their vision of a health care system that meets the needs of consumers, employers and public purchasers. AHIP currently represents  1,300 companies that offer health insurance to more than 200 million Americans. The AHIP provides proof that agents know how to sell compliant plans that are up to date with CMS guidelines, giving better protection to those purchasing MA & PDP plans.

The Test

AHIP test will be available to take mid-June and can be found on the AHIP website. You will need to register for access through this website to take the test, as well as use your National Producer Number. At a typical price, the AHIP test can be taken for $175. Although seemingly steep this price includes study guides that will help you take the test at full preparation. Many insurance carriers also offer a discounted price for the following years AHIP. This discount is offered sometimes for writing a certain amount of apps or other requirements, lowering the cost to somewhere around $125.

The AHIP is made up of Medicare and Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA) test. It has around 50 questions which you have two hours to take. You must pass with at least a 90% score, having three attempts to do so.

Don’t forget that with selling MA plans you still have carrier exams to take.  Each specific MA carrier has its own group of test and re-education over their product that you must complete. This is to make sure that you are not only knowledgable on their products but also stay compliant when selling. Stay tuned as we come back with a recap over the carrier certifications soon!