The Hidden Cost of Commission Cuts: Why UnitedHealthcare’s Move Matters to You | 06.18.2025
Across the country, UnitedHealthcare is cutting commissions for brokers and agents on Institutionalized Special Needs Plans (ISNPs) and $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans—plans used by the most vulnerable seniors in our community.
We have always been upfront about how the Medicare system works—including how we get paid. It’s part of our commitment to transparency, trust, and ethics. So when something happens that threatens the integrity of that system—and our ability to serve you well—we speak up.
Recently, a national advocacy organization, NABIP, issued a strong public statement about UnitedHealthcare’s decision to slash commissions for Medicare Advantage plan enrollments in several markets across the country. We support NABIP’s message 100% and want to explain what this could mean for our Oregon clients if these cuts expand to our state.
What’s Happening?
UnitedHealthcare, one of the largest Medicare Advantage plan sponsors, has reduced how much it pays independent brokers like us to help enroll and support members in their plans. These changes have already taken effect in other states, and there is concern that Oregon could be next.
This move may sound like an internal business decision—but it has real consequences for you, the Medicare beneficiary.
Why Should You Care?
Brokers and agents don’t just enroll people in plans. We…
Walk you through complex coverage options
Help you understand drug formularies, networks, and out-of-pocket limits
Assist with claims issues, prior authorizations, and billing errors
Are your advocate year-round, not just during Annual Enrollment
When commissions are cut too low, fewer professionals can afford to offer that level of service, potentially leading to:
Fewer local brokers offering support on certain plans
A shift toward high-pressure, national call centers instead of personalized help
Seniors being left to figure things out on their own, often with confusing or misleading information
We are a small, community-rooted business. We don’t charge for our help; our compensation comes from the plan sponsors (see the explanation here). But if those sponsors cut rates to the point where brokers can’t operate sustainably, it chips away at the very foundation of Medicare advocacy.
What This Means for Our Clients
We aren’t going anywhere. We will always tell you the truth about what’s changing in the industry. If UnitedHealthcare or any other plan reduces our ability to serve you effectively, we’ll be honest about it and help you navigate other options. We’ll continue to educate, advocate, and support the people who trust us with their Medicare journey.
We Support NABIP’s Call to Action
As NABIP members, we’re grateful for their leadership in standing up for the ethical, sustainable delivery of Medicare. We hope more people—clients, lawmakers, and carriers alike—pay attention to this issue before it becomes the new normal.
Final Thoughts
The Medicare system works best when seniors are informed and supported—and when agents are treated with fairness and respect. Our promise at Medicare Mark Fuchs LLC is to always operate with clarity, ethics, and your best interest at heart.
…What can I do?
—> Fill out this 5-question survey that NABIP developed to advocate with legislators on behalf of brokers and agents to recognize their value in working with Medicare beneficiaries. You have the option to remain anonymous!
—> If you have questions or concerns about your plan or how these changes might impact you, please don’t hesitate to contact us to book an appointment.
Serving Oregon’s Medicare community with integrity, transparency, and heart.
Read NABIP’s full statement here.
