06/12/2026
HAFA's Official Statement:
Health Agents for America (HAFA) is deeply disappointed by recent comments from Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez that disparage health insurance agents and brokers serving America’s Medicare beneficiaries.
Independent agents and brokers are not the problem. We are the professionals sitting at kitchen tables, answering frantic phone calls, helping seniors understand their Medicare options, guiding beneficiaries through complex coverage decisions, and protecting consumers from fraud, confusion, and costly mistakes.
Based on her comments, it appears Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez has received inaccurate or incomplete information regarding the role of licensed agents and brokers, including references to so-called “kickbacks” and industry trips. Licensed Medicare agents are highly regulated professionals who operate under extensive federal and state laws, CMS regulations, compliance requirements, compensation rules, and oversight. Characterizing an entire profession based on misconceptions does a disservice to both agents and the millions of Medicare beneficiaries who rely on us every day.
It is also apparent that Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez has not had the opportunity to meet the dedicated men and women of this industry. HAFA has attempted to connect with her office, but to date, we have not been successful. Our invitation remains open.
Independent Medicare agents serve millions of America’s seniors and individuals with disabilities each year. We help beneficiaries compare coverage options, understand provider networks, review prescription drug costs, and navigate an increasingly complex healthcare system. We are often the first call when a senior is confused about their benefits, facing a coverage issue, or needs help understanding their choices.
In fact, agents and brokers are among the strongest advocates for consumer protection. HAFA has spent years working with regulators, lawmakers, carriers, and government agencies to identify fraud, increase transparency, and improve accountability throughout the Medicare marketplace.
Blanket attacks on agents and brokers are not only unfair—they undermine the work of professionals who dedicate their careers to helping Medicare beneficiaries make informed healthcare decisions.
HAFA welcomes the opportunity to meet with Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez and her staff to discuss the realities of our profession, the safeguards already in place, and the critical role agents play in protecting America’s seniors.
We believe that meaningful policy discussions should be based on facts, not misconceptions. We stand ready to have that conversation at any time.
B. Ronnell Nolan, HIA
President & CEO
Health Agents for America, Inc.
Protecting, Defending, and Empowering Independent Agents and the Consumers They Serve.
