health insurance

Ready to Retire? Your Financial Rx for a Smooth Transition – Free Webinar

After a long and dedicated career, the thought of retirement is both exciting and a little overwhelming. You’ve spent your life providing the best care for your patients, but who is providing the best care for your financial future? Join us for a complimentary, one-hour webinar designed specifically for physicians like you who are either considering retirement or have recently made the transition.

The Doctor’s Guide to a Financially Healthy Retirement

Date: Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Location: Online (Link to be provided upon registration)

We’ll cover the critical topics that can make or break your retirement plan, giving you the knowledge and confidence to move forward. Join us to learn actionable advice on:

  • Navigating Medicare and Health Care Costs: Understanding your options and ensuring you have the right coverage in place.
  • Maximizing Social Security Benefits: Strategies to optimize your benefits and when to start drawing them.
  • Generating Sustainable Income from Investments: How to transition from accumulating wealth to generating a reliable income stream.
  • The Power of Roth Conversions: Is converting your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA the right move for you? We’ll discuss the pros and cons.
  • Tax-Efficient Withdrawal Strategies: Don’t let taxes erode your hard-earned savings. Learn how to withdraw from your accounts in the most tax-advantageous way.
  • Long-Term Care Planning: Plan for your potentially largest expense in retirement.

This is an educational session designed to empower you to make informed decisions about the next chapter of your life.

Your retirement deserves the same level of attention to detail you’ve given your patients.

Click here to register now.

Please feel free to forward this invitation to any physician colleagues who might also find this information beneficial. The financial health of our medical community is a shared priority.

This complimentary education session is provided by WisMed Assure & WisMed Financial.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as insurance advice related to your specific policy or situation. Please consult with a qualified insurance advisor or professional before making any policy decisions. Full disclaimer and contact information.

Understanding the Annual Medicare Open Enrollment

By Alisa Allen, RHU, REBC, Medicare Benefits Insurance Advisor

Each year Medicare allows beneficiaries to make changes to how they receive Medicare coverage during the annual open enrollment period. Let’s review a few of the basics and your options during this annual event.

Medicare at a Glance

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older and younger adults with long-term disabilities. People with Medicare may choose to receive Medicare benefits through original Medicare (Parts A and B) or through a Medicare Advantage plan administered by a private health insurer.

With original Medicare, you can also sign up for a separate Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to cover outpatient drugs. Individuals usually purchase a Supplemental insurance policy to help with deductibles, coinsurance, and other out of pocket costs after Medicare.

Medicare Advantage plans, which include services covered under Medicare Parts A and B, typically include Part D prescription drug coverage as part of the plan. Medicare Advantage is an alternative to Original Medicare. You still need to sign up for Part A and B before you choose a Medicare Advantage program and you will continue to pay Part B premiums.

What is the Medicare Open Enrollment Period?

The annual Medicare open enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, people with Medicare can review Medicare plans offered in their area and make changes to their Medicare coverage – this goes into effect on January 1 of the following year. This includes:

  • Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage – or vice versa
  • Switching between Medicare Advantage plans
  • Electing or switching between Medicare Part D prescription drug plans

NOTE: This does NOT include making changes or enrolling in a Medicare Supplement with no medical underwriting approval. Special circumstances can come into play, but “no questions asked” changes to supplements are typically not included in the Open Enrollment period.

Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans change from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to compare your options annually. Marketing for 2026 plans begins on October 1 – you’ll see more advertising for these programs during this time.

WisMed Assure is here to help you navigate every step of this journey. Alisa Allen, our Medicare Insurance Specialist, has extensive experience with educating and assisting individuals on Medicare basics and insurance options that coordinate with Medicare.

Alisa is happy to help make this an easier process for you and your family. Reach out to Alisa at alisa.allen@wismedassure.org or call her direct at 608.665.9443 for assistance. 

Picture of Alisa K. Allen, RHU, REBC

Alisa K. Allen, RHU, REBC

Medicare Benefits Insurance Advisor

Reach out to me to learn more. You can contact me at alisa.allen@wismedassure.org or 608.665.9443.

Send me an email!
Picture of Alisa K. Allen, RHU, REBC

Alisa K. Allen, RHU, REBC

Medicare Benefits Insurance Advisor

Reach out to me to learn more. You can contact me at alisa.allen@wismedassure.org or 608.665.9443.

Send me an email!

Note:

WisMed Assure and its agents are not affiliated with any Medicare program.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 9 organizations which offer 53 products in our service area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1.800.MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as insurance advice related to your specific policy or situation. Please consult with a qualified insurance advisor or professional before making any policy decisions. Full disclaimer and contact information.

Adapting Employee Benefits to Support Your Staff

By Chris Noffke, REBC, CSFS, GBDS, Vice President of Employee Benefits

When I first entered the world of insurance nearly 20 years ago, the employee benefits landscape in Wisconsin was very different from what it is today. Back then, employee benefits centered almost exclusively around traditional health plan’s networks. Employers were primarily concerned with keeping costs manageable, while providing a basic level of coverage that checked the necessary boxes. Choices were not as limited, and customization was common.

Fast forward to today, and the shift is nothing short of pre-built benefits at a high cost. The employee benefits market has evolved dramatically, driven by changes in health care regulations, market competition, and the increasing expectations of both employers and their teams. Employees now expect a more robust and customizable benefits packages that go beyond just health insurance. We’re seeing a demand for Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD), Life Insurance, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRA), and more – all becoming integral parts of employee benefits packages. Moreover, with a diverse and changing workforce, plus competition from large health care systems, adaptability has become key in managing group benefits effectively.

Reflecting on the journey, I’m reminded of the countless conversations and problem-solving moments that have defined my career. The relationships I’ve built and the trust I’ve earned are a testament to the commitment we’ve all shared in pushing the envelope and making sure employee benefits in Wisconsin are among the best.

If your group is feeling the strain of rising health care costs, or if you’re simply looking for a way to better manage your benefits strategy, let’s have a conversation. Contact me at chris.noffke@wismedassure.org or 608.442.3734.

Together, we can navigate the complexities of today’s market and find solutions that work not just for today, but for the future. After all, the only thing constant in this industry is change, and the best way to face it is side by side.

Picture of Chris Noffke, CSFS, GBDS

Chris Noffke, CSFS, GBDS

Vice President, Employee Benefits

Reach out to me to learn more. You can contact me at chris.noffke@wismedassure.org or 608.442.3734.

Send me an email!
Picture of Chris Noffke, CSFS, GBDS

Chris Noffke, CSFS, GBDS

Vice President, Employee Benefits

Reach out to me to learn more. You can contact me at chris.noffke@wismedassure.org or 608.442.3734.

Send me an email!

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as insurance advice related to your specific policy or situation. Please consult with a qualified insurance advisor or professional before making any policy decisions. Full disclaimer and contact information.

Medicare Resources and Support

By Alisa Allen, RHU, REBC, Medicare Benefits Insurance Advisor

The federal Medicare program is complex and can be confusing when you start reviewing your options at retirement or when you become Medicare-eligible. You may also be assisting your parents, grandparents, or friends with this important decision and searching for information.

Here are a couple of resources we like to share with clients to get acquainted with Medicare:

WisMed Assure is here to help you navigate every step of this journey. Alisa Allen, our new Medicare Insurance Specialist, has extensive experience with educating and assisting individuals on Medicare basics, insurance options that coordinate with Medicare, and other parts of this program. Alisa is happy to help you and your family and enjoys making this an easier process for all.

Reach out to Alisa at alisa.allen@wismedassure.org or call her direct at 608.665.9443 for assistance. 

Picture of Alisa K. Allen, RHU, REBC

Alisa K. Allen, RHU, REBC

Medicare Benefits Insurance Advisor

Reach out to me to learn more. You can contact me at alisa.allen@wismedassure.org or 608.665.9443.

Send me an email!
Picture of Alisa K. Allen, RHU, REBC

Alisa K. Allen, RHU, REBC

Medicare Benefits Insurance Advisor

Reach out to me to learn more. You can contact me at alisa.allen@wismedassure.org or 608.665.9443.

Send me an email!

Note:

WisMed Assure and its agents are not affiliated with any Medicare program.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 9 organizations which offer 53 products in our service area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1.800.MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as insurance advice related to your specific policy or situation. Please consult with a qualified insurance advisor or professional before making any policy decisions. Full disclaimer and contact information.

Your Medicare Update

By Mary Krueger, Medicare Specialist

It’s early 2024 and its already time to explore Medicare options for 2025. Many Medicare enrollees want to look at what is suitable for their needs in the Medicare market. If you have started looking for yourself or someone else, there are many different ways to procure coverage. Let’s explore some ideas for the 2025 Medicare Advantage programs that are being considered by medicare.gov.

Medicare Advantage

One of your options is the Medicare Advantage program. Insurance companies have slightly different copays and out-of-pocket maximums, so it’s very important to look at those. Additionally, some of your coverages are limited to in-network clinics and hospitals. Out-of-network procedures may require you to pay more or all of the bill. This is why it is critical to understand what your plan covers. Medicare pays the insurance companies for your care, so you do not need to show your Medicare card to the provider, you only need your insurance card.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

Your other options are the Medicare Supplement (also known as Medigap) policies which do not have networks. This seems to be the most popular option with our members with plans written through WisMed Assure. The freedom to choose where you get care (as long as the facility accepts Medicare) has been a very important benefit for those who are semi or fully retired.

Losing coverage

If you are age 65 or older, you have a right to guaranteed issue within 63 days of when you lose or end certain kinds of health coverage. When you have a guaranteed issue right, companies must sell you a Medigap policy at the best available rate, regardless of your health status, and cannot deny you coverage.

Choosing to enroll

Under federal law, you get a 6 month “Medigap Open Enrollment” period. It starts the first month you have Medicare Part B and you’re 65 or older.

Disability eligibility

Options are also available for those under age 65 who are eligible for Medicare because of a disability.

We are here to help you. Contact the WisMed Assure team at insurance@wismedassure.org, complete this quick online form, or call 608.442.3810 for help with your insurance needs.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as insurance advice related to your specific policy or situation. Please consult with a qualified insurance advisor or professional before making any policy decisions. Full disclaimer and contact information.

Peace of mind this holiday season

By Martin Hurst, Insurance Service Representative

The agents here at WisMed Assure do not focus solely on revenue, our agents go that extra mile to address individual and specific concerns and provide coverage within each customer’s budgetary needs. By putting clients’ needs first, our agents demonstrate their commitment to providing excellent service and building trust with physicians. Their expertise and attention to detail enables them to guide physicians through the complex world of insurance, explaining terms, conditions and benefits clearly and transparently. Ultimately, our agents strive to empower physicians with the knowledge and coverage necessary to protect their health and peace of mind.

As I navigate my first year here at WisMed Assure, the agency has prioritized providing me with direct training with our agents. Tom Strangstalien is one of the agents I have had the opportunity to sit down with to discuss Life and Disability policies. Recently, Tom and I reviewed disability quotes for a physician. Tom carefully considered the physician’s lifestyle, occupational practice and potential risks to tailor the policy to their unique needs.

Additionally, he broke down the various policy options, highlighting the specific benefits and limitations of each. He focused on the importance of comprehensive coverage that would provide adequate support if the physician ever faced a disability, without worry of the financial burden. After reviewing the quotes for this physician, he noted that the physician was concerned the monthly premium was exceeding their budget. This was to be expected as their initial meeting was to create the “ideal policy” without worrying about the premium cost. With this concern in mind Tom navigated to the riders page with the cost for each listed next to the rider and asked what I would keep or remove from the policy to reduce the overall cost. We went back and forth on keeping or removing certain riders, we looked at 90- or 180-day elimination periods, possibly decreasing the time covered in relation to retirement age of 65 or 67, to see the impact this would have on premiums. At the end of our meeting, we were able to give this physician several options that had the potential of saving them $4,000 in monthly premiums. This is an example of what each agent does here daily and is the reason I am grateful to work alongside so many unique and caring individuals.

As you’ll see in this edition of the Antidote, the WisMed Assure and WisMed Financial team is focused on building and maintaining relationships with clients, and always keeping the best interest of the client at the center of all we do. These real client stories help illustrate the WisMed difference. Contact us at 608.442.3810 or insurance@wismedassure.org.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as insurance advice related to your specific policy or situation. Please consult with a qualified insurance advisor or professional before making any policy decisions. Full disclaimer and contact information.

Helping clients with strategies, not just quotes

By Chris Noffke, GBDS, CSFS, Vice President of Employee Benefits

Chris Noffke

Managing the costs of employee benefits while still providing robust resources for your employees can be a challenge. If your insurance agent just gives you a few quotes to compare, you might not be getting the best plans for your team.

Recently, my team and I met with a health care clinic that offers benefits for employees and has been struggling with rising premiums. Their agent had been showing them health insurance quotes, but not looking at strategies to reduce costs. We were able to find an option for them that saved almost $20,000 without reducing benefits for their employees. By using unique funding options, we were able to reduce overall premium costs without increasing costs for employees.

As the Wisconsin Medical Society’s insurance agency, WisMed Assure is a niche insurer specializing in insurance for health care professionals. Our team understands cybersecurity needs for health businesses, medical professional liability coverage and exactly how a disability insurance policy needs to be written for a physician. And we have unique contracts available only to our clients.

To illustrate the power of the niche programs we have built for WisMed clients and members, we recently worked with a small healthcare practice that received a group disability quote from another agent with a 4% reduction in renewal pricing. That may have looked good on the surface, but with the same top insurance carrier, due to WisMed Assure’s volume and relationship, we were able to offer a 5% decrease with a 3-year rate lock. The savings to this client in working with WisMed Assure was substantial.

When you work with us, you’re not alone in the insurance process. We’re hands on and help you with:

  • Open enrollment materials
  • Benefits booklets
  • Claims and payment issues
  • Help you use your money more wisely

Don’t deal with the average agent, talk to a professional dedicated to physicians. Please email me at chris.noffke@wismedassure.org or call 608.442.3734.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as insurance advice related to your specific policy or situation. Please consult with a qualified insurance advisor or professional before making any policy decisions. Full disclaimer and contact information.

Making Part D of Medicare brighter

By Mary Krueger, Medicare Specialist

As many of you on Medicare know, October 15 to December 7 is the Annual Election Period for Medicare Part D and Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage). This often coincides with a flurry of research needed and concerns expressed by client recipients and this year was no exception.

For many, a prescription drug deductible is an easy choice, but the issue of very expensive prescriptions is a familiar plea. Therefore, searching for solutions is top priority.

One of those requests came from a physician and his wife who had vastly different prescription needs. One was taking a simple generic drug that would not meet the deductible but the other needed to find a way to reduce the cost of their estrogen cream and heart medication.

In this case, the best option was prescription discount cards (GoodRx and SingleCare) along with their Medicare Part D plans. These discount cards are a great way to research costs online to find more economical ways to get prescription medications. In this case, the savings amounted to more than $72 per month on one and $31 per month on the other medication.

Additionally, I assisted a family that saved more than $8,210 in a year for experimental MS drugs using a discount card.

Free discount cards have been a great help for many of my customers and are worth exploring in addition to the Part D plans. Not only can these cards help you personally, but they can be a great resource for your patients.

If you need assistance with your Medicare choices, let me know. We are here to help you! Contact Mary Krueger at 715.760.1350 or mary.krueger@wismedassure.org.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as insurance advice related to your specific policy or situation. Please consult with a qualified insurance advisor or professional before making any policy decisions. Full disclaimer and contact information.

Innovation and improvements 

By Chris Noffke, GBDS, CSFS, Vice President of Employee Benefits

Chris Noffke

June marked my eighteenth year in the insurance industry; my entire career has been focused on employee benefits and helping clients save money and improve employee confidence in benefits. When I was asked to join the WisMed Assure team, I was given the chance to be innovative and truly build something the way I felt it should be and that’s exactly what my team and I are doing!

When I was hired in 2016, I was asked to help strengthen our employee benefits programs and services. At that time, we did not offer many services, nor did we provide a lot of in-depth consulting regarding health insurance. Now we have launched a new pooled Dental insurance plan with Delta Dental of Wisconsin, a pooled disability plan, an association health plan with WPS and The Alliance and added a dozen new services and assessments. We continue to add services and programs to provide the best coverage for our clients.

I am very excited to announce our next innovation. WisMed Assure will be adding a second Association Health Plan eligible for all health care companies in the Madison/Dane County area. Our new Association Health Plan will offer Group Health Cooperative (GHC) of South-Central Wisconsin as the insurance carrier, providing access to GHC clinics and all the UW Health clinics in Dane County plus UW hospital. This benefit offering will be available starting on September 1, 2023. We are proud to have an additional plan option that will better serve our clients in Dane County and surrounding areas.

This option provides HMO rates to our members and those of the health care community. If you’ve ever thought, “We’re a low utilizing group, we don’t really use our health care,” this is a great opportunity to explore. These plans are medically underwritten and can provide a glimpse into your company’s utilization.

If you would like to see how our rates look, please email me at chris.noffke@wismedassure.org or call 608.442.3734. Wishing you the best of your remaining summer!

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as insurance advice related to your specific policy or situation. Please consult with a qualified insurance advisor or professional before making any policy decisions. Full disclaimer and contact information.