Leisa Fox welcomes Marcie Strouse of Capitol Benefits Group for a practical look at Medicare and the questions it creates for employers and employees. Marcie explains Parts A, B, C, and D and discusses how Medicare Advantage and supplemental coverage differ. Their conversation connects those choices to everyday considerations, including prescription costs, provider networks, travel, premiums, and the timing of retirement. They also explore Medicare enrollment and HSA contributions, along with the differences between Medicare and Medicaid.

For employers, the conversation emphasizes employee education and access to knowledgeable benefits advisors. Marcie discusses reviewing prescription coverage, understanding whether an employer plan provides creditable coverage, and helping employees recognize when they need individual guidance. She also explains Capitol Benefits Group's approach to ongoing plan reviews and advocacy. The central takeaway is to start the conversation early and examine the details of each person's situation before choosing coverage.

Benefits compliance can feel overwhelming, especially as employers prepare for open enrollment. In this episode of The Benefits Table, Leisa Fox welcomes Tracy Hitchcock, partner at Capitol Benefits Group, to discuss the responsibilities that come with offering employee benefits. From ERISA and Affordable Care Act reporting to employee notices and renewal planning, Tracy explains why company size, ownership structure, and plan funding all deserve attention when evaluating compliance requirements.

The conversation also explores how employers can help employees understand and use their benefits through personal guidance, clear communication, and enrollment options that fit their workforce. Tracy shares how Capitol Benefits Group supports clients with renewal negotiations, employee education, claims advocacy, and benefits administration, whether online or on paper. She also previews the firm's expanding HR support and reinforces the value of having a benefits advisor who stays involved throughout the year.

In the first episode of The Benefits Table, Marcie Strouse of Capitol Benefits Group talks with Leisa Fox about why employers should expect more than a plan comparison and an annual renewal quote. They discuss rising health care costs, direct primary care, level-funded plans, voluntary benefits, and Medicare options, with a focus on finding coverage that fits each employer and its employees.

Marcie also explains what a benefits advisor should do after enrollment: educate employees, help with administration and compliance, and step in when claims or prior authorizations become difficult. Drawing on her legislative advocacy work, she encourages employers to ask three things of an advisor: independence, dependable service, and a willingness to bring new solutions to the table.

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