Harlon Pickett Insurance Broker

07/07/2025

Green Imaging: Our Trusted Partner in Healthcare
A huge THANK YOU to the team at GreenImaging for being a sponsor at the 2025 NABIP Annual Convention, in Miami - and more importantly, for being our everyday partner in delivering real solutions for our clients.

If you're a broker, agent, consultant, or agency that stopped by their booth, 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗺𝗲 𝗻𝘂𝗱𝗴𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮 𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲: don’t let that brochure just gather dust. Take a deeper look.

𝗪𝗲 𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗜𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱:
✅ With individual ACA clients
✅ With Medicare members
✅ With our small groups using Medical Cost-Sharing
✅ When building a plan for a group using Green Imaging as a direct contact
✅ With our BOR on a group's current use of HDHP (high deductible health plans)

𝗪𝗵𝘆? 𝗕𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀.

Green Imaging helps break down financial barriers—not just for employer plans, but for ANYONE navigating healthcare with a big deductible and an order for imaging in hand.

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗮 𝘀𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝘃𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝟭𝟬𝟬 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀:

The client gets an imaging order. Walks down the hall to the hospital imaging center (because that’s what they were told to do). Then, they are informed that the cost will be $2400 and will be applied to their deductible. SO they put off care because that is not in the budget.

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗜𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀:

Rheumatoid Arthritis work up - 7 separate orders for standard x-rays - down the hall $2500 - Green Imaging $600

Two Sholder MRIs and a DEXA scan (that sounds like a lead in to a bad joke) - hospital imaging all in $5000 - Green Imaging $785

Green Imaging’s access to affordable imaging makes the difference between someone getting care now when they need it, rather than having to wait a little longer because they can’t afford it.

That’s value.

That’s strategy.

➡️ If you're working with ACA, short-term plans, high-deductible health plans, medical cost sharing, Medicare Advantage, Self pay, or even just trying to help a friend, Green Imaging might be the tool you didn’t realize was right in front of you.

Visit greenimaging.net
Ask questions. Learn something new.
𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘀𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲.

Thank you again to Green Imaging for being a trusted partner. You make a difference in how we serve our clients, and that’s something worth celebrating.

07/06/2025

By Harlon Pickett | Healthcare Strategist & Founder, Eagle Care Health Solutions

As more Americans choose to work past 65, a quiet but costly issue is surfacing in employer-sponsored health plans: IRMAA, the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount.

While most discussions about IRMAA focus on retirees, employers may be overlooking how this “shadow tax” affects their high-earning employees who remain on the job after age 65. Especially when Medicare enrollment is encouraged or required by the company.

Most employers don’t even know what IRMAA is until their high-value, 65+ employees come asking why they’re suddenly paying $ 500 or more each month for Medicare coverage they didn’t request and barely use.

So, here’s what you need to know: This isn’t just a retiree problem. It’s a costly and unnecessary burden on your experienced, still-working employees, especially those in leadership, consulting, and specialized roles.

What’s IRMAA?
IRMAA is a Medicare surcharge tacked onto Part B and Part D premiums for individuals whose income crosses certain thresholds (starting at $103K single / $206K married in 2025). These surcharges are based on your income two years prior.

For high earners? These premiums can balloon to $500–$600+ per month, even while they’re still working, covered by your group plan, and not even using Medicare as their primary insurance.

How Employers Accidentally Create a Problem
Some employers, especially those with self-funded plans, encourage or require employees to enroll in Medicare at 65. Why?

To lower plan premiums
To shift claims risk to Medicare
To avoid high-cost utilization among older workers

I get it. On paper, it makes sense.

But here’s the catch: Medicare enrollment triggers IRMAA for high earners who are still actively working. They can’t appeal. They can’t delay the cost. And in many cases, Medicare is secondary to your group health plan, which means they’re paying a premium for coverage they barely use.

Let’s not sugarcoat it: this feels like a penalty for staying in the workforce.

Real-World Example
Let’s say your VP of Ops is 67 and earning $225,000. Your health plan requires her to enroll in Medicare Part B and D.

Here’s what she’s now paying monthly:

Base Part B: $185
IRMAA (2025 Tier 3): +$244.60
Part D + IRMAA: ~$110
Total Monthly: ~$530+
Annual Hit: Over $6,000

All while still paying into your group plan and with no access to Medicare subsidies or appeals.

Why This Matters
This isn’t just about dollars. It’s about retention, equity, and planning:

You may be nudging your best talent out the door by making it more expensive to stay employed.
Most employees (and many HR teams) don’t know this is coming until it’s too late to plan around it.
There are better ways to manage health plan costs without inadvertently penalizing older, high-performing workers.

What Employers Can Do
Review your Medicare policies - For groups with 20+ employees, you are not required to make Medicare primary. Let employees opt-in on their own terms.
Educate employees before age 63 - Remember: IRMAA is based on income from two years prior. Help them time income events, such as bonuses, RSU exercises, and Roth conversions, wisely.
Offer IRMAA-aware planning support - If you're serious about retention and employee wellness, help them understand the financial implications of staying with your company past 65.
Consider Medicare premium stipends - Some employers cover the cost difference, especially for critical leadership roles.

Final Word
Employers often aim to reduce healthcare costs, but without realizing it, they may be offloading those costs onto the very people they want to keep: their experienced, still-working, older employees.

IRMAA isn’t just a retiree issue; it’s a workforce issue. As more Americans work past 65, this is going to get louder.

When you lead with transparency, compassion, and strategic thinking, your workforce and bottom line will thank you.

I talk about this and other difficult to understand issues every day with employers who are trying to do the right thing. If this hits home, let’s start a conversation.

07/04/2025

Coming home after another great NABIP Annual Conference -

I always walk away from NABIP events with notes, ideas, and renewed energy—but more importantly, with gratitude.
One of the biggest takeaways for me this time?

➡️ As NABIP grows, one thing remains constant: our members have a heart for service.
We are united by a mission bigger than sales and strategy. We’re building continuity through:

✅ The Healthcare Bill of Rights that advocates for real change
✅ Trusted expertise that helps guide legislation with facts and lived experience
✅ Education and mentorship that help brokers sharpen their craft
✅ A commitment to improving healthcare literacy for every client we serve
This is why I proudly support and contribute to the NABIP community.

And it's why I believe every broker, agent, consultant, or agency—no matter where you are in your journey—can benefit from the relationships and resources found here.

07/04/2025

Happy July 4th from all of us at H Pickett Insurance Agency.

Today, we celebrate freedom, unity, and the incredible communities we serve. May your day be filled with sparkle, joy, and a moment to reflect on the values that bring us together.

Wishing you a safe and dazzling Independence Day!

06/22/2025

Licensed Brokers Aren’t the Problem—We’re the People Bridging the Gap

NABIP has responded to the recent report by Paragon Health Institute, and it's an important conversation for anyone involved in the future of healthcare access.

The report raises concerns about the ACA and broker involvement, but let’s not lose sight of the facts:

💡 Brokers aren’t loopholes. We’re the lifeline for over 19 million Americans trying to navigate a complex system.

🧭 We guide people through enrollment, eligibility, and plan choice—things that are anything but easy.

✅ Income is already verified twice.
✅ Subsidies are reconciled through the IRS.
❌ Fraud concerns are significantly overstated.

👉 Read NABIP’s full response: [https://www.rfr.bz/ff8a328

🎯 Let’s work toward reform that’s data-driven, balanced, and protects access—not restricts it.

💬 Have a story to tell? You can help strengthen this conversation:

🧓 65+ [Share your experience] (https://www.rfr.bz/f59cb66
🏥 Marketplace clients: [Tell your story] (https://www.rfr.bz/fff41f8
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Individual clients: [Add your voice] (https://www.rfr.bz/f776bcc

📊 Brokers and agents: [Take the NABIP Marketplace survey] (https://www.rfr.bz/f59cb66 to help ensure policy reflects real-world experience.

Let’s push for reforms that serve the public and keep trusted guidance at the center of the system.
https://www.rfr.bz/fde8a72

📢NABIP Fires Back at Misleading ACA Claims

The Paragon Health Institute’s recent report misleads the public, misrepresents the enrollment process, and ignores the rigorous safeguards already in place.

NABIP is setting the record straight. Licensed brokers aren’t loopholes—they’re lifelines. They’ve helped more than 19 million Americans navigate ACA enrollment, verify eligibility, and make informed choices.
✅ Income is verified twice—front-end and back-end.
✅ Subsidies are reconciled through the IRS.
✅ Fraud claims don’t match reality.

📉 Paragon’s proposal to eliminate Enhanced Premium Tax Credits would spike premiums, threaten coverage stability, and harm working families, gig workers, and small businesses.

Let’s stop the finger-pointing. Real reform must be targeted, data-driven, and focused on preserving access—not reducing it.

👉 Read NABIP’s full response: https://lnkd.in/eKNF4F6A

🗣️ Help strengthen our advocacy! Complete NABIP’s Marketplace Agent/Broker survey and share with your clients. These insights are critical for shaping conversations with lawmakers, regulators, and market leaders.
👉 Survey: https://lnkd.in/g6n_qtDU

06/22/2025

🔴 UnitedHealthcare’s decision to eliminate agent commissions isn’t just a business move—it’s a direct hit to seniors’ access to trusted guidance.

As NABIP stated, this action is as shortsighted as it is harmful. Eliminating commissions on over 100 Medicare Advantage plans across more than 20 states doesn't just affect brokers and agents—it affects the millions of Medicare beneficiaries who count on us to help them make the right decisions.

We are not order-takers.

We are problem-solvers, educators, and advocates. And now, we're expected to do that work for free.

❓Without independent brokers and agents:
Who will explain the differences between plans?
Who will help avoid costly enrollment mistakes?
Who will stand beside our seniors when no one else does?

The answer? No one.

And that leaves our most vulnerable population LOST.

If we allow carriers to devalue and eliminate the professionals who show up every day for seniors, we’re not just damaging our industry—we’re abandoning the people we’re here to serve.

🗣 It’s time to raise our voices:
Speak to your clients.
Educate their families.
Rally your peers.

Support loudly. Support often. And don’t let this go unnoticed.

NABIP, Jessica Brooks Woods CEO, MPM, PHR, Harlon Pickett


https://www.rfr.bz/fc2b1ec

🚨 NABIP Condemns United Healthcare’s Decision to Slash Agent Commissions 🚨

NABIP strongly objects to United Healthcare’s recent decision to eliminate agent commissions across more than 100 Medicare Advantage plans in over 20 states. This move limits access to trusted, licensed guidance for Medicare beneficiaries and threatens the role of independent agents who serve as vital advocates for older Americans.

NABIP has met directly with the congressional committees that oversee the Medicare program and with CMS to elevate urgent concerns about the impact of commission cuts on Medicare beneficiaries. These meetings reflect the seriousness of the threat to Medicare access and the urgency for action. Alongside these efforts, NABIP—joined by NAIFA, HAFA, CIAB, and IIABA—submitted a joint comment letter to U.S. House and Senate leadership urging immediate intervention to address the growing instability in the Medicare Advantage market.

🔗 Read the press release: https://ow.ly/YUgL50WaXal
🔗 Read the joint letter: https://ow.ly/RSiF50Waibp

05/26/2025

In Remembrance and Gratitude
At H Pickett Insurance Agency, we pause this Memorial Day to reflect on the profound sacrifice made by our nation’s heroes.

Freedom isn’t free. Today, we remember.

05/22/2025

🚨 Big Win for Texas Employers & Brokers! 🏛️
Texas Senate Bill 1332 has officially passed with supermajority support and is now on Governor Greg Abbott’s desk — poised to become law!

🎉 This long-overdue legislation brings an end to one of the most burdensome rules in group health insurance. Previously, employers had to pay an extra month(s) of premiums if terminations weren’t reported by the third day of the next month — even if no services were used.

📌 With SB 1332, insurers will now have the discretion to waive those charges if no claims were made — bringing fairness and flexibility to Texas employers.

👏 Hats off to NABIP-TX’s Legislative Council for pushing this across the finish line! This is a huge win for the clients we serve and the small businesses we advocate for.

🗓️ Texas legislative fact: If the Governor takes no action, this bill will still become law 10 days after presentation (excluding Sundays), thanks to its supermajority passage and barring a veto.

This is a Web Application Firewall (WAF) provided by Cloudflare, a leader in web application security, which is part of your StarChapter service.

04/09/2025

Having a great time at NABIP-TX.
Day 1 sessions
✅ Federal Health Insurance Legislation and Priorities. Max Karlin
✅ Coordinating Group, Individual, and Medicare Benefits.
✅ERISA and Employee Benefits Compliance Essentials
✅ Market trends for 2025
✅ Collaboration Panel - bringing together NABIP, NAIFA, and HEALTH AGENTS FOR AMERICA INC

Outstanding information.

In our ever changing industry having an Association at your back, helping to fight for your best interest and the interest of your clients is essential.

Keep up the good work. Looking forward to tomorrows topics.

Harlon Pickett, Reid Rasmussen, Jason Galvin, Lisa Cawley CIC, FLMI, RCLS, Stacy Cochran, Jessica Brooks Woods CEO, MPM, PHR, Jasmine Keating 💎 , Elizabeth Allen

10/31/2024

🚨 Today’s the Day! 🚨
Get ready to tune in LIVE for Healthcare Horror Stories on Why Does Healthcare Suck? 🎙️ The audio room is back, and so is your chance to take the mic!

Got a healthcare experience that left you speechless? A story that still gives you chills? Join us to share your story or just listen in – this is a safe space to speak up and shed light on the real-life challenges of navigating healthcare.

📅 Happening Today
⏰ 11 am CST
🔗 https://www.rfr.bz/fd2ff58

Don’t miss out – see you there! 🩺💬

10/30/2024

🔊 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗶𝘀 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸 – 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹! 🔊
Ever been left in shock after a healthcare experience? Then this episode of Why Does Healthcare Suck? is for you! We’re bringing back the original audio room format, where you can jump on stage and share your story. 🙌

Get ready for Healthcare Horror Stories – the tales we all live but rarely share. Who’s ready to speak up, listen in, and maybe even spark some change? 🩺🔥

👉 Join us live: HALLOWEEN!! OCT. 31st @ 11am CST
LINK: https://www.rfr.bz/f33b7e1

10/29/2024

🎃 Got a Healthcare Horror Story? 🎃
It’s that time again! Join us for an unforgettable episode of Why Does Healthcare Suck? as we dive into the scary side of healthcare – and no, we’re not talking about Halloween! This time, we’re inviting YOU up on stage to share your story. 😱💬

Whether it’s a spooky bill, a jaw-dropping insurance surprise, or an epic doctor showdown, we want to hear it all! Let’s pull back the curtain on what healthcare is really like. Who’s in? 👻

📅 Mark your calendar: HALLOWEEN!! Oct. 31 @ 11am CST
🔗https://www.rfr.bz/ff9b1c1