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Rick Hedderick, MBA, CFP

Rick Hedderick, MBA, CFP, is an Associate Teaching Professor of Finance and the Certificate in Financial Planning Program Director at Penn State Behrend, Sam and Irene Black School of Business. He can be reached at rph132@psu.edu.

Recent posts by Rick Hedderick, MBA, CFP

3 min read

The Future of Financial Planning with the Use of Artificial Intelligence

By Rick Hedderick, MBA, CFP on Mar 17, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Financial planning has always been an essential part of personal financial success. As artificial intelligence (AI) improves, its potential to change financial planning grows. For financial planners, understanding AI-driven tools is necessary to improve client services, improve decision-making, and remain competitive. This article will explore emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities of AI in the financial planning industry.

AI can improve financial planning by automating tasks, providing predictive analytics, and improving risk assessment. AI-driven tools allow planners to offer more personalized and data-driven visions, increasing their advisory services. The rise of robo-advisors and AI-powered analytics is changing the industry. While these technologies can increase efficiencies, they do not replace human expertise. Instead, financial planners integrate AI into their workflows to enhance decision-making, streamline operations, and offer a hybrid human and machine intelligence model.

Topics: Financial Planning Artificial Intelligence Centers of Excellence
3 min read

Choosing Medicare Coverage

By Rick Hedderick, MBA, CFP on Nov 4, 2024 6:00:00 AM

Medicare open enrollment is the annual period during which our clients eligible for Medicare can make changes or update their Medicare health and prescription drug plans. This period runs every year from October 15 to December 7, and any chosen changes will then take effect the following January 1. During this open enrollment period, clients can switch from Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) to a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or vice versa. They can also change from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another, enroll in a switch, or drop a prescription drug plan (Medicare Part D). This period allows beneficiaries to ensure their current plans meet their needs, especially if their coverage, cost, or provider networks have changed. Reviewing and updating these coverages can help clients save money and ensure their healthcare needs will be covered for the following year. Choosing Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan depends on one’s healthcare needs, finances, and personal preference. In this article, I will present key points to be considered when making this decision.

Topics: Retirement Planning Health Care Medicare Centers of Excellence Lifetime Healthcare Center

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