The SciMark Report
The Blog About Direct-Response Marketing
Not as many new products to write about this week, but the ones I did review stood out -- especially the first two. Both are unique in the DRTV industry (for different reasons), and both are worth watching to see what develops.
1. I-CAN HEALTH (N/A) is a low-cost health insurance provider. The pitch: "Insurance choices you can actually afford." The company offers plans with guaranteed acceptance. Plans start as low as $160 per month for individuals and $270 per month for families. This is an iCan Benefit Group product pitched by Billy Mays.
Product (D7) Score: 6 out of 7*
Commercial Rating: Good**
Comments: I usually don't review commercials of this sort, but the involvement of Billy Mays caught my attention. Billy has pitched many things over the years, but health insurance is quite a departure for him. I was skeptical at first. But after speaking with Billy, I realized just how passionate he is about this campaign. At the beginning of the commercial, Billy says this is "the most important product I have ever endorsed," and he means it! With some 47 million uninsured Americans out there, it's easy to understand why he's so dedicated to this cause. If the insurance options are really as inexpensive and comprehensive as the commercial promises, I wish him and iCan the best of luck.
Betsy, California
Janice, California
I am writing a letter to commend your advocacy department. Your company is relatively new to me and I have some health issues. I feel very confident when I call the advocacy department. They thoroughly looked into each question I had and took care of the problem. They are a great asset to your company and I feel confident to remain a client of yours a as long the advocacy department stays in force and is there to guide me through any problems.
Thelma , Alabama
My husband found out that he had cataracts and needed surgery. We called the HCCUA number and were very blessed indeed to get a wonderful lady to help us. Her name is Lynne. I can't begin to tell you all she has done for us. She has been with us through not only the surgeries that were required for him, but something happened in the second surgery that required emergency surgery. I immediately called Lynne from the Doctors Office to let her know what was taking place. I am not sure what she told them but when they came back to us the emergency surgery for the Doctor, Surgery Center and Anesthesiologist were all done for FREE!!!! We can't tell you what Lynne means to us. I personally think she is part of my family. Not only did she take care of that last episode but she made sure we were not taken advantage of in any way on the other surgeries as well. I hope all your representatives are as wonderful as she is. We can never thank her enough for her help.