What is a SOA?

A Medicare scope of appointment (SOA) is a form required by the federal government for certain meetings with Medicare insurance agents. It basically sets the boundaries of what can be discussed during the appointment.

Here's how it works:

• Protects you: The SOA helps protect you, the Medicare beneficiary, from unwanted sales pitches. It ensures the agent sticks to the specific Medicare plan options you're interested in discussing.

• Sets expectations: Before the meeting, you fill out the form indicating which Medicare plan types you want to explore. This way, you and the agent are on the same page from the start. Don’t know the different types of Medicare plans? Start here!

• Limits discussions: The agent can only discuss the plan options you selected on the form. They can't try to sell you on something different during the appointment.

Overall, the SOA is a consumer protection measure that promotes transparency and ensures that Medicare beneficiaries are well-informed and not subject to aggressive sales tactics. By clearly outlining what can be discussed during the appointment, the SOA empowers individuals to focus on the specific Medicare plan options they are interested in exploring. This helps create a more efficient and productive meeting between the beneficiary and the agent, leading to a better understanding of available Medicare coverage.