Navigating Q4: New Plans, Better Networks, and Smart Savings
Carmen Londono • September 12, 2024
It’s Q4! Time to get smart about your health coverage. New plans, better networks, and some serious savings are up for grabs. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by—let’s break down how The Insurance Pros can help you lock in the best plan for your wallet and your health!
Table of Contents
- Q4 Overview
- Smaller PPO Networks
- New Plan Designs
- Insurance and Hospital Group Relationships
- Ancillary Benefits
- Conclusion
Q4 Overview
Now that we are rolling into Q4, let me give it to you straight— we're seeing increases on average of 6-12% across the board, with the average around 10%. I know, not exactly the news you want to hear. But don't stress just yet, because I've got some good news to balance it out! Both Blue Cross Blue Shield and UnitedHealthcare are bringing some new heat to the table with plans that can help keep those costs in check.
Smaller PPO Networks
Let's talk about these smaller PPO networks they're rolling out. I know, I know, "smaller" sounds like a downgrade, but hear me out—Blue Cross's smaller PPO still covers 85% of their total network, and UnitedHealthcare's smaller PPO? 90%. So, even with these "downsized" networks, you're still getting access to the care you need without sacrificing quality. Trust me, it's not as bad as it sounds.
New Plan Designs
The cherry on top? These new plans come with a glow-up in design. Lower deductibles, reduced out-of-pocket costs, and better copays—what's not to love? And even though you're choosing a smaller network, you're still likely to stick with the same docs you've always had. We've had clients check, and their providers are still in the game. So yes, these plans are smart, and no, you won't be jumping through hoops just to see your regular doctor.
Insurance and Hospital Group Relationships
We're seeing some interesting relationships between insurance companies and hospital groups that are working in your favor. UnitedHealthcare has a new PPO line tied to Advocate Health Care, meaning lower copays and deductibles if you stay in their network. And Blue Cross Blue Shield? They've linked up with Northwestern, Rush, and Endeavor Health (formerly known as NorthShore) to bring you a new hospital-based insurance line. If you like to keep things in the family when it comes to your healthcare, these plans are definitely worth checking out. Less cost, same top-notch care. Win-win!
Ancillary Benefits
On the ancillary side (you know, dental, vision, life insurance, all that good stuff) we have some good news as well. Rates are actually down in these areas, so it's more affordable than ever to add these benefits for yourself and/or your team.
Conclusion
I know Q4 can come with some sticker shock, but don't panic. We at The Insurance Pros know how to help you navigate these changes without losing sleep or blowing your budget. We've got the plans and the know-how to make sure you get the care you deserve—no sacrifices needed.
Want to learn more? Connect with me one on one!
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As women, we’re out here building legacies—owning 40% of U.S. businesses, leading households, breaking barriers, and doing it all with grit and grace. But behind the scenes? π¨ We’re underfunded. β‘ We face higher financial risks. πΈ We carry less life insurance. π¬ And almost half of us small biz owners will face a lawsuit at some point. Let that sink in. We’re building empires—without a safety net. What We’re Seeing in the Field As an insurance expert, I’ve seen too many women thriving publicly, while quietly skipping out on the financial protection they need: Not enough liability coverage. No buy-sell agreement in place. Zero disability insurance. Life insurance that wouldn’t even cover the funeral. It’s not because we don’t care—it’s because no one sat us down and made it make sense. That’s why I started The Insurance Pros. Because insurance shouldn’t be a guessing game. Especially for women who are doing the most. How to Play Yourself in 3 Easy Steps (Don’t Do These) Skip coverage to “save” money. Spoiler alert: one ER visit or lawsuit could cost 50x more than a monthly premium. Assume your current policy has your back. If you haven’t reviewed your coverage lately, chances are it’s outdated—or incomplete. Think life insurance is “extra.” If your family or business depends on you, then you are essential—protect accordingly. So What Do We Do? We Move Like the Legends Before Us This Women’s History Month, let’s honor the women who paved the way—by taking ownership of our future. βοΈ Protect what you’ve built. From your LLC to your babies, they all deserve security. βοΈ Know your worth. You’ve worked too hard to leave your assets exposed. βοΈ Lead boldly. Insurance isn’t about fear—it’s about freedom to take bigger, smarter risks. Final Word: Don’t Just Build. Fortify. Whether you’re a solopreneur, CEO, or caregiver with a side hustle—this is your moment. Don’t leave what you’ve built unprotected. Because empowered women don’t just lead. They shield their empire, too. π Ready to Talk Coverage That Actually Works for You? Let’s make sure your business, your family, and your vision are covered. π¬ Book a free strategy session with Carmen today at www.insurepros.net .
Welcome to The Insurance Pros Blog—where we break down what your policy really means (without giving you a headache). I'm Carmen Londono , founder of The Insurance Pros. With over two decades in the insurance world, I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming policies can be—especially for business owners trying to make smart, confident decisions without drowning in fine print. That’s exactly why I created this blog: to make insurance make sense. No jargon. No nonsense. Just the guidance you need, delivered like a conversation with your smartest (and sassiest) friend in the biz. What You’ll Get from This Blog β
Bite-Sized Insurance Tips Cut through the clutter with clear, digestible tips that help you make better decisions fast. β
Real Talk for Business Owners Understand how to protect your business, your employees, and your profits without falling into common coverage traps. β
Timely Industry Trends & Updates Stay ahead of the curve with insights that impact your bottom line—from policy changes to emerging risks. β
A Dash of Humor (Because Why Not?) Let’s face it—insurance can be dry. But we keep it lively around here, because learning should never be boring. Who This Blog is For If any of the following sound like you, bookmark us now: You’re a small business owner trying to offer employee benefits without breaking the bank. You’re an HR manager who wants to keep your team informed without putting them to sleep. You’re a self-employed professional who needs flexible coverage that actually fits your life. You’re just plain tired of Googling insurance terms and ending up more confused than when you started. Let’s Cover Your Assets (The Right Way) Insurance is personal. It’s also business-critical. The more you know, the better you can protect what you’ve built. That’s where we come in. Ready to take control of your coverage? π Book a Free 15-Minute Insurance Check-In We’ll review what you have, identify any gaps, and make sure your coverage is working for you—not against you. Don’t miss a post. Stay in the know with expert tips, insider insights, and Carmen’s no-nonsense approach to all things insurance. π¬ Subscribe to Our Blog Update s
Listen, we get it—insurance isn’t exactly the first thing you want to deal with in the new year. But trust us, it’s about to be the easiest thing you check off your list in 2025. Here at The Insurance Pros, we’re more than policies and paperwork; we’re your go-to for peace of mind and confidence that your people, your home, your everything are covered. Here’s how we’re showing up this year to make insurance a breeze: 1. Clarity in Coverage You know how insurance feels like a foreign language? Like, “Am I supposed to have a dictionary for this?” We’re not doing that anymore. In 2025, we’re putting the fine print on blast and making sure you actually understand your coverage. No guessing. No confusion. Just straightforward info about what’s covered, what’s not, and what’s next. For real, when you sit down with us, you’ll leave knowing exactly how your policy protects you and your family. Because insurance isn’t supposed to make you feel like you’re solving a Rubik’s Cube. 2. Enhanced Client Education Let’s be honest: when it comes to insurance, the more you know, the less you panic. That’s why 2025 is the year we’re stepping up our education game. Think blogs that break it all down, videos that don’t bore you to tears, and myth-busting that makes you go, “Wait… I didn’t know that.” We’re also launching a newsletter! Want exclusive tips, updates, and answers to your burning insurance questions delivered straight to your inbox? Head over to our Contact Us page to sign up for our emails. Staying informed has never been easier. And that’s not all—we’re bringing even more helpful info to our social media. Follow us for practical advice, timely updates, and a little humor to brighten your day. Insurance doesn’t have to be dull, and we’re here to prove it. 3. Community Connection We’re not just the folks you call for insurance; we’re part of your neighborhood. This year, we’re getting out there and showing up for our communities. Local events? We’ll be there. Supporting initiatives that make life better for you and yours? Count us in. 2025 is about building connections that matter—and not just in business. Whether it’s sharing resources or helping families get the protection they need, we’re here for you. 4. Stress-Free Service Life’s already stressful enough. The last thing you need is your insurance giving you a headache. That’s why we’re making everything smoother—from policy reviews to claims to renewals. Simple. Quick. Done. We’ve got new tools coming your way, like a client portal and automated reminders, so you can stay on top of your coverage without lifting a finger. When we say “stress-free insurance,” we mean it. We Want to Hear from You What are your 2025 goals? Protecting your family? Growing your business? Finally getting your insurance in order? Whatever it is, we’re here to help make it happen. We’re inviting you to share your goals with us. How can we support you this year? Whether it’s personalized advice or just being there when you need us, we’re ready to partner with you every step of the way. Here’s to a Great Year Ahead 2025 is a new chapter, and we’re so grateful to be part of your story. Thank you for trusting us with what matters most. At The Insurance Pros, we’re ready to help you navigate whatever comes next—with confidence, clarity, and zero drama. Here’s to a year of protection, peace of mind, and progress—together.
As the holiday season approaches, we at The Insurance Pros (TIP) want to extend our warmest wishes to our cherished clients and partners. Reflecting on the past year, we're filled with gratitude for the trust you've placed in us and the milestones we've achieved together. This year, we expanded our comprehensive insurance solutions, ensuring that your life, assets, and peace of mind remain our top priorities. From personalized home and auto coverage to tailored business insurance plans, we've been dedicated to providing protection that truly works when life gets real. A highlight of 2024 was our commitment to assisting small and micro businesses in entering the group market. We introduced options like One Person Group plans, allowing business owners to secure quality coverage for themselves or retain that rockstar employee in need of better benefits. As we look forward to 2025, we're excited to continue offering insurance made clear and protection made simple. Your support has been instrumental in our success, and we're eager to keep delivering the reliable and affordable coverage you deserve. β¨ From all of us at TIP, may your holidays be filled with joy, and may the new year bring you health, happiness, and prosperity. Here's to another year of protecting what matters most! Call to Action: As we gear up for another amazing year, let us be your go-to for all things insurance. Whether it's protecting your home, business, or future, we're here to make coverage clear and hassle-free. Visit insurepros.net to explore how we can help you start 2025 with confidence! πΌπ
Carmen shares her go-to sofrito recipe, the flavorful base that brings depth and richness to so many Latin dishes.
Dr. José Celso Barbosa, a man who was out here in the 1800s breaking molds and making history. When we say “trailblazer,” we mean it! Born on July 27, 1857, Barbosa wasn’t just the first Black Puerto Rican to practice medicine in Puerto Rico—he was one of the first Black men to earn a medical degree in the U.S., period. He didn’t just break down doors; he paved a whole highway for generations after him, from medical innovation to political activism and even inventing a little thing we now call “employer-based health insurance.” Yes, he did that too. Schooling and Straight-Up Determination: A Role Model for the Ages Barbosa’s journey to becoming a doctor? Not for the faint-hearted. This was the late 19th century, where being Black, Puerto Rican, and ambitious enough to attend the University of Michigan for medical school was unheard of. But Barbosa wasn’t about to let anything stop him. He graduated in 1880, kicking down barriers and showing other Hispanic and Black folks that medicine, too, could be their calling. This man’s hustle didn’t just make him a doctor—it made him a beacon for everyone dreaming bigger than the world thought they could. Employer-Based Health Insurance? Yeah, He Was That Visionary Barbosa didn’t just want to be any doctor; he wanted to make healthcare work for the people. When he got back to Puerto Rico, he looked around and saw the healthcare crisis brewing for low-income families. So, what did he do? He set up a mutual aid system, asking people to contribute a small monthly fee to cover their healthcare costs when needed. Yup, he practically invented employer-based health insurance right there in Puerto Rico. It was revolutionary. Quality healthcare, he believed, shouldn’t be a luxury; it’s a right. This man was doing 21st-century things in the 1800s! Politics and the Fight for Puerto Rican Autonomy Now, as if medicine and employer-based health insurance weren’t enough, Barbosa decided to jump into politics. In 1899, he started the Puerto Rican Republican Party, giving Puerto Ricans a voice and demanding equal representation. He was all about empowering his people, and his political legacy is still a blueprint for leaders fighting for Puerto Rican rights today. Barbosa was about Puerto Rican dignity, identity, and autonomy, and he wasn’t afraid to challenge power structures to make that happen. Honoring Dr. Barbosa During Hispanic Heritage Month Dr. José Celso Barbosa didn’t just live a life; he made history. He’s what Hispanic Heritage Month is all about—honoring those who paved the way, lifted communities, and demanded better for everyone around them. Barbosa’s legacy is proof of the power of pushing boundaries and standing up for what’s right, even when the world isn’t ready. This month, we celebrate his work, his courage, and his relentless pursuit of justice. Let his story remind us to keep fighting, keep dreaming, and always keep looking out for each other.
In celebration of #HispanicHeritageMonth , I’m sharing a special recipe each week that’s close to my heart! ο»Ώ First up is my Feta & Fire-Roasted Salad —a flavorful dish packed with tangy feta and smoky roasted veggies. It's one of my personal favorites!
Hey there! Gather 'round, because we’re about to dive into immunization coverage in Illinois health insurance plans. Whether you're a vaccine enthusiast or a bit hesitant, this info is going to make you smarter and ready to navigate that insurance maze like a pro. Why Immunizations Matter First, let’s talk about why immunizations are a big deal. Immunizations play a crucial role in keeping you alive and kicking. They protect you from a whole range of nasty diseases that can seriously mess with your health. From the time you’re a baby to when you’re all grown up, these shots keep you safe and healthy. Plus, staying up-to-date with your vaccines means you’ll recover faster if you do get sick, and it helps protect the people around you too. It's about building a strong defense for you and your community. What’s Covered? Alright, now let’s dive into what your health insurance in Illinois covers when it comes to immunizations. Most health plans have to cover a bunch of vaccines without making you pay out-of-pocket. That’s thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Here’s a quick rundown of some shots that are usually covered: Kids: Chickenpox , measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) , polio , whooping cough (pertussis) , and more. Teens: HPV , meningococcal , and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) . Adults: Flu shot , shingles (for those over 50), and pneumonia (for older folks or those with certain health conditions). Pretty cool, right? Your plan might cover even more, so it’s always a good idea to check with your provider. How to Make Sure You’re Covered You don’t want surprises when it's time for your shot. Here’s how to make sure you’re covered: Check Your Plan: Go through your health insurance policy or give them a call to see exactly what’s covered. In-Network Providers: Make sure you’re going to a doctor or clinic that’s in your insurance network. Going out-of-network could mean you’ll end up paying more. Stay Informed: Keep track of your immunization schedule. If you’re unsure about what vaccines you need, don’t be shy—ask your doctor! The CDC’s immunization schedule is a great resource. What If You’re Uninsured? No insurance? No problem. Illinois has got your back. Programs and local health departments can help you get vaccinated at little or no cost. It’s all about keeping everyone in our community healthy. A few are listed here- Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program Provides free vaccines to eligible children. Learn more: CDC’s VFC Program . Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Offers immunization services statewide. Learn more: IDPH Immunization Page . Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) Provides immunizations on a sliding fee scale. Find a center near you: IPHCA . Local Health Departments Many local health departments provide low-cost vaccines. Locate yours: IDPH Directory . Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Provides free and low-cost vaccines through city clinics. Learn more: CDPH Immunization Program . Ready to take charge of your health? Immunizations are key to keeping you and your community safe and healthy. Don’t wait—check your health insurance plan today to see what’s covered, make sure you’re visiting in-network providers, and stay informed with the CDC’s immunization schedule. Let's roll up those sleeves and stay protected! Call us now and keep your immunizations up-to-date. Your health matters, and staying on top of your vaccines is a powerful step towards a healthier future for you and those around you. Stay healthy, stay informed, and keep that immune system ready for anything!
