Longtime resident opens JKM Insurance Group

by Laura Straub

Navigating Medicare coverage is no easy feat. Between a seemingly endless stream of commercials and the sheer volume of material that arrives in the mail, it can all be very overwhelming to sort out. Janice Kopec understands, and she helps educate her clients about their Medicare and short-term insurance options as a licensed, independent insurance agent at JKM Insurance Group.

“Healthcare has always been a passion for me,” Kopec said. “I have always loved helping people.”

With years of experience in the medical field, including responsibilities like marketing, community liaison, education and sales, Kopec set her sights on insurance in 2014.

She took courses, earned her state license and signed on with an insurance agency. Then in April 2020, Kopec decided to open her own independent agency, JKM Insurance Group.

Opening JKM Insurance Group in the midst of a pandemic, Kopec mainly communicated with clients through virtual meetings, but as of May 2021, she has an office at 8193 Avery Road in Broadview Heights. Now she’s available to meet with clients virtually, in a client’s home, at a local coffee shop or restaurant or of course at her new office space.

“I work with people turning 65 [who are on Social Security, disability, or Medicare and Medicaid],” she said. “That’s the magic age for Medicare.”

Kopec spends anywhere from one to more than two-and-a-half hours meeting with clients to vet supplements, prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans. She provides guidance and education on the best plan options for each client’s unique situation. There are no fees or obligations associated with her meetings.

“Everyone is different. It’s important to be patient, it takes time. I outline everything in detail,” Kopec said. “My goal is to make sure my clients feel confident and happy in the choice they’ve made.”

And her clients appreciate her work. She says, “I’ve heard, ‘I couldn’t have done this without you.’”

Kopec said she truly enjoys working with people. She appreciates the opportunity to share her knowledge and to use her experience to help guide people to the best options for them. Working in Medicare insurance also gives her the chance to be creative, since everyone has different issues, concerns and needs.

“It’s problem solving a lot of the time with the clients, and finding what is the right solution for them,” Kopec said. “Because of my background, I’m able to sell 11 major carriers. I’m an independent licensed agent, so I can sell many different company’s plans.”

When it came to choosing a location for her business, Broadview Heights was the obvious answer.

“I’ve lived in Broadview Heights since 1972. I graduated from BBHHS and my children also attended BBHHS so I have strong roots in the community and I’m proud of where I live,” Kopec said. “I’ve lived here the majority of my life I feel our city is very friendly and it offers many amenities for old and young alike. It’s a great place to grow up and to retire.”

For more information, contact Kopec at 440-221-8399. ∞