Permission to Contact (PTC) is a crucial aspect of Medicare marketing compliance. According to the Medicare Communications and Marketing Guidelines (MCMG), agents must obtain explicit permission from beneficiaries before initiating contact. This permission can be granted through various means, such as a signed form, an email, or a recorded verbal agreement. Importantly, if a beneficiary contacts an agent first, this is considered implicit permission to continue the conversation.
Agents can use beneficiaries’ addresses to send marketing materials, but they must ensure that these materials comply with Medicare’s marketing guidelines. The materials should not be misleading or confusing and must clearly state that they are marketing communications. However, using addresses alone does not constitute PTC. Agents must still obtain explicit permission before making any follow-up calls or visits.
Agents are allowed to purchase lead lists, but they must be cautious about how they use them. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has strict rules against unsolicited direct contact. This means agents cannot cold call or visit potential beneficiaries without prior permission. Lead lists can be used to send marketing materials, but any further contact requires explicit PTC.
Agents can target marketing efforts towards individuals who are about to turn 65, as this is a critical time for Medicare enrollment. However, they must still adhere to the PTC rules. This means they can send direct mail or other marketing materials, but they cannot make unsolicited phone calls or visits. The goal is to provide information and encourage the beneficiary to initiate contact, thereby granting implicit PTC.
Disclaimer: Not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program.
