Compliance
GPS Courses Coming!
August Webinars
COVID-19 & Vaccines
In This Issue
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Editor: Kelly Chadwick Contributors: Lyndsey Stewart / Stacey Solomon/ Kristen Warren / Jesika Cater / Lorinda Black Design: Jesika Cater
About This Issue
Pathways
Spring 2020
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Benefits Educator Spotlight
DirectPath Press Corner
By far, the most common thread throughout these newsletters is C-H-A-N-G-E, and that will be no different in this issue. Our country is experiencing massive, uncomfortable change right now that is necessary for us to progress as a society. Instead of allowing change to scare us at DirectPath, we embrace it. We know that we work at a dynamic company that is unafraid to adapt to the marketplace in order to stay competitive. Here are a handful of ways we’re doing that during this unprecedented time… 100% Telephonic Season Our corporate team is already working from home without knowing when we’ll return to the office. Back in March, CEO Mike Byers gave me the directive to plan for a fully telephonic season. No sweat, right? We’ve already got effective systems in place to support this. I have a post-it on my desk that says “Training BEs Drives Revenue” because we know how critical training is to our success. Get ready for new courses, mock enrollments, small breakout groups, and interactive webinars. Seamless Client Experience Bridget Lipezker and Denise Kappler lead operations for our Advocacy and Transparency and Benefits Governance divisions, respectively. For the past six months, the three of us have been working together with Celeste Harris, Nikki Hallmark, Emily Penner and Jenni Aldred to develop a smoother implementation and ongoing delivery model for clients that elect multiple lines of DirectPath’s business. The seamless client experience is being rolled out in two phases, the first of which has already begun and will go through the end of fourth quarter. Phase one is focused on the workstreams that support client delivery (communications, inbound data, outbound reporting, field services, bswift, and fulltime benefits experts). The second phase will be the introduction of three new client-facing roles: Account Manager, Implementation Manager, and Client Delivery Manager. We will restructure the existing client delivery team into one of these three positions. The Account Manager will be a layer between sales and operations so that our Sales Directors can focus on hunting new business (hello, Spencer Martel!). The other two roles are just a breakout of the time-boxed and year-round responsibilities of our current Client Relationship Managers. Field Compliance Specialist Many of you have heard that our dear Kristen Warren has left behind sweet home Alabama for the bright lights of New York City. We couldn’t be prouder of her for taking this leap of faith and wish her nothing but the best in her new adventure. She is leaving big shoes behind, and we’re thrilled to announce that Ryan Lundquist has been tapped as her successor. Ryan started with DirectPath in 2016 as a seasonal Benefits Educator, and has served as an Educator Support Consultant and Field Analyst over the past two open enrollment seasons. He will be your primary contact for any compliance related questions surrounding non-resident licenses and carrier appointments. Ryan lives in Pleasant Grove, UT with his wife and three children. As always, our inboxes are wide open! We love hearing from you. Benefits Educators are the lifeblood of this place we love to work, and we are so proud to call you our teammates.
Vaccine development usually takes at least a decade to be fully tested and licensed. The COVID-19 Pandemic has created a need for a vaccine with a much shorter timeline.
Did you know...
History of vaccine development (the Cliff Notes version) Traditionally vaccines were developed using the whole virus or a protein and therefore all vaccines had to be uniquely designed for each virus. Currently they are developing vaccines using DNA or mRNA that could potentially work for multiple viruses with only a small change to the design for each vaccine being developed. This technology has been in development since 2003.
Time to Licensing RotaTeq was licensed in 2006 after 26 years in development and trials. The Ebola vaccine was licensed earlier this year after 16 years in development and testing. The fastest vaccine to be licensed was the Mumps vaccine (in the 1960s) which took only 4 years. Scientists are trying to have a COVID-19 vaccine licensed in 12-18 months or less. Is that safe, or even possible?
For resources click here
So, is it safe and possible? I’m no psychic, so I can’t say definitively. From what I’ve read, I feel that since the science of developing vaccines has changed it would follow that vaccine testing would occur on a significantly shortened timeline, which should decrease the length of time to licensing. The first human trial for a COVID-19 vaccine started just 3 months after the pandemic was declared and there are currently 5 companies that are in human trials.
- by Lorinda Black, Nurse Advocate
COVID - 19 & Vaccine
Benefits Educator, Norma Fetterolf, in her own words: “The Fetterolf little sweat shop of horror masks originated from humble beginnings. Since we could not find masks in stores or online, I started by making six masks for my immediate family. While in communication with my elderly aunt and uncle in New York, we mailed masks as well as other supplies since they were running low. In speaking with friends and extended family, the orders continued to grow. To date, I have made over 200 masks and shipped all over the United States including Alaska. Last week, a delivery was made to British Columbia, Canada as well. I see this as a labor of love and although I insist on no charge, many have donated material, wine, and money. As long as I don’t receive canned goods or live animals, I will remain content with a glass of wine.” I’ll raise a glass in appreciation of Norma’s selfless contributions during this difficult time. As a recipient of her masks, I can attest that they are well-made, comfortable, and durable. Thanks, Norma, for all you do! We’re so glad you’re on our team. ~ LS
This August we’ll be hosting weekly informational webinars. We will be covering a variety of topics and provide some practical guidance that we hope will get you geared up and ready for Q4. These webinars are completely optional, but we hope you’ll attend. We know that everyone is adjusting to the changes that are impacting 2020. We want to make any transitions as easy as possible and thought the webinars could be a great resource to you all. Your success is, as always, a priority to our team. Below are some of the topics that will be on the agendas for the August webinars. We’ll start sending out sign up and access information for the webinars in late July and throughout August.
Join us in August for information webinars.
Timecards & Expense Reports
Staffing and Case Invitations
Licensing and Carrier Appointments
Web Based Training Success Tips
Working From Home
Christopherson Business travel gives updates on COVID-19 Travel Vendor Health & Safety guidelines, click here to read more.
FYI: The USPSTF (US Preventive Services Task Force) has given the HIV prevention medication also known as pre-exposure prophylaxis or PrEP, an “A” rating, which means it is highly recommended and that there is high certainty that the net benefit is substantial. This rating also means that for benefit plan renewals on or after July 1, 2020, all employer plans must cover HIV/PReP at 100%--with no deductible, copay or coinsurance. For more details, click here for CNBC and here HUB International.
Per DirectPath’s Finance Department, updates to the Compensation and Expense Guidelines are effective June 2020. We’ve included a summary of substantive changes below. To see full Compensation and Expense Guidelines visit www.directpathbe.com.
Per 2020 federal goverment rate 57.5 cents per mile driven.
Mileage
The work from home per diem has increased to $25 per working day.
Work from home per diem
Policy Updates
Did you miss the SpaceX launch? Watch the historic event here.
The GPS program has been proven the last few years to be a key success to Benefits Educators working with DirectPath. The intent of the GPS program is to provide each Benefits Educator with an in-depth education on the skills and technologies necessary to be successful in this role. Returning and New Benefits Educators will be required to complete all training courses before being staffed on a case. Each training course is paid at your regular hourly rate (click here if you need to make updates to your direct deposit information). Our goal is to ensure that you have all the tools necessary while working with DirectPath. You will start seeing more information on courses, credentials and release dates mid July. Here is a preview of what to expect: Partnership with DirectPath Compliance Benefits Knowledge DirectPath Technology
Compliance Corner
If you have never been appointed with Trustmark: Click here for the link to nomoreforms Instructions You should follow the instructions on the attachment to become appointed with commissions going to DirectPath. Please note: You have not completed the process until you are given a confirmation code. If you have been appointed with Trustmark: Sign into “nomoreforms” as listed in the Trustmark instructions. If you aren’t sure if you were ever appointed, you can try to complete the nomoreforms process and the system will tell you whether or not you are already registered. You should click “forgot password” if you have completed nomoreforms in the past but cannot remember your password. Once you log in you should see your appointment status and who is set up to receive commissions.
If you have never been appointed with Unum: Click here for the link to the UNUM Instructions Please note: You will receive your broker number once you have been appointed. If you have been appointed with Unum: Call AskUnum at 1.800.275.8686. If you are appointed, check to see if you need to complete any additional background information for your resident state. If you are in good standing, ask for your Broker ID.
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In order to ensure we are fully prepared for 4Q 2020, it is imperative that our team of Benefit Educators complete as many prerequisites as possible prior to beginning an assignment. All Benefit Educators should complete the tasks below before the contract period begins:
Are you Ready to Enroll?
Confirm resident license is active and in good standing.
Confirm CE courses needed for resident renewal are taken prior to begining an assignment.
Confirm you are appointed and in good standing in your resident state with Unum and Trustmark. (They may need updated background forms every few years.)
Send Unum Broker # and Trustmark Confirmation to greenlight@directpathhealth.com.
While cases are staffed using numerous variables (time zone, client familiarity, licenses, etc), preparedness and compliance are high on the list. Fulfilling these requirements beforehand also ensures training days can remain dedicated to technology and benefits, and not items that could have already been completed.
If you have previously been appointed, call to check your status here:
Trustmark – 1.800.229.4543 Unum – 1.800.275.8686
If you aren’t yet appointed, follow instructions here:
Get appointed with Trustmark (Link) Get appointed with Unum (Link)
Charlotte, owner Perry Brian Benefits Educator
Bailey and Lilli, owner Maria Sholl Smith Benefits Educator
Ares & Chelsey, owner Rich Gracial ESC
Benefits EDucator Spotlight
Tamara Simmons
Team Lovelace
Georgia
How many years with DirectPath? 2017-2020 How did you get into the industry? I was hired for a position that offered to train and license me in Life, Health and Annuities and I jumped at the opportunity to add a new skill to my resume. My degree is in healthcare administration so I understood the importance of having insurance in place and wanted to provide a greater understanding to those who I came in contact with. Tell us something interesting about yourself? I lived overseas in Korea for a few years, went to school, learned the language and enjoyed their exotic cuisine. A current fun fact about me is I am the founder of Positioned for Purpose Academy of Excellence which provides mentoring and a diversion program for young girls who’ve made some negative choices in their lives that have impacted them severely. I simply support their process of finding their true purpose in life. I’ve always been one to provide a helping hand to others in several capacities and this is just another avenue to do so. Favorite place you like to go on vacation. My favorite place to vacation so far has been the Bahamas. I would love to go to France, Egypt or Dubai this year.
Stephen Finley
Colorado
How many years with DirectPath? First year How did you get into the industry? Benefits Manager and committee member for two organizations over 27 years Tell us something interesting about yourself? I like to cook for groups. I like to travel, but not this year. Enjoying my first retirement. Favorite place you like to go on vacation. Different places each year. Some favorites: Alaska, Galapagos Islands, India, Hong Kong & Thailand.
Etta Fortson
How many years with DirectPath? I am new to the company. How did you get into the industry? I entered the industry on the Life side in 2013 after meeting with a friend of my son's. On the Health side, I have been a healthcare professional for over 15 years, so I truly understand the significance of having quality health insurance and I decided to make the industry my second career choice. Tell us something interesting about yourself? I enjoy riding horses, and I hope to have my own ranch someday. Favorite place you like to go on vacation. Miami
Paul Epperly
Kentucky
How many years with DirectPath? First year How did you get into the industry? I worked in personal injury subrogation for eight years which taught me many things about different types of Health plans and most of all about the language in those Health Plan contracts. I stepped out of that role to become an agent and sell Medicare Suppl plans. As I developed and grew as an agent, I found how amazing it was that so many people really had no idea what kind of Health insurance they had, what it covered or even what their deductible was. I am detailed oriented and a tad OCD, so I like to know how things work. Health insurance contracts are like the tiny parts of a watch. Each tiny part is needed to make it work correctly. I like to find those parts and educate people about them in a general way. In other words, I find it more simple to dumb it down so even I can understand it. Tell us something interesting about yourself? Something personal about me? I love college basketball and NFL. Go UK Wildcats and Pitt Steelers! I have completed the Ironman and 8 marathons but the truth is I love to eat so I have to keep running. Favorite place you like to go on vactaion. I am pretty diversified so I love a secluded cabin in the woods or even just a towel on the beach. Pretty at peace with either one!
Darrell Watts
How many years with DirectPath? 7 years How did you get into the industry? I acquired my insurance license during the opening of Medicare advantage market in the mid 2000's. I found an immense degree of satisfaction helping people find the right plan and making sure they understood their benefits. Tell us something interesting about yourself? I try to be a person of action with those actions governed by the overarching principle that you never have to apologize for being kind, considerate, thoughtful or gracious. If I am not, let humility guide me to correct it. Favorite place you like to go on vacation. Any place where all of my children and their children are all together.
John and Kathy Lovelace
Missouri
How many years with DirectPath? We have been with DP for 5 years. How did you get into the industry? We both wanted to get away from demanding jobs. Kathy was with a Telephone company for over 30 years and retired to help with the family business. The family businesses had over 50 employees with all the demands that come with a 50 employee business. We closed our business and decided to look for another opportunity without all of the employees, inventory, and overhead that come along with it. Flexible hours that we had become accustomed to was important so we could continue to make our own schedules. Kathy attended a job fair and was impressed with an office manager with the St Louis Aflac office. After a lot of communication and thought she decided to join Aflac. A year later after John closed our business he joined the Aflac team. Insurance was a good fit for us because of the consultation aspect of the position and we have always enjoyed helping people. Favorite place you like to go on vacation. Our favorite vacation spot is Hawaii. Pictured is us on the Holland America Cruise we took from San Diego to Hawaii and back. A most enjoyable vacation.
As the front lines of DirectPath's personalized benefits education and enrollment service, Benefits Educators provide the industry best practices and decades of experience servicing the employees of our clients. Click the pictures below to meet some of our new and returning Benefits Educators.
DirectPath News & MORE...
IRS Announces 2021 Limits for HSAs and High-Deductible Health Plans
Telehealth having a moment. What does its future look like after COVID-19?
Will New COBRA Notices Help Retirees Avoid Medicare Mistakes?
How to meet changing employee benefits interest
Top 4 Employee COVID-19 Benefits Covergae Questions
Coronavirus could lower healthcare cost for employers
Click the links below to read more
Oliver, owner Maria Scholl Smith Benefits Educator
Daxter, owner Paula Marshall Benefits Educator
Mr. Bentley, owner Tammy Wright Benefits Educator
Emma, Owner Kathleen Hughes Benefits Educator