What I Wish More People Knew About Choosing a Health Plan

Every year, I talk to people who are frustrated, confused, or just plain overwhelmed by their health insurance choices. And I get it. Picking a plan can feel like trying to read a foreign language while blindfolded on a rollercoaster.

But here’s the thing: choosing the right health plan doesn’t have to be scary, and it shouldn’t be a guessing game. If I could sit down with every person in Wisconsin over a cup of coffee, here’s what I’d want them to know.

1. Cheapest Isn’t Always Best

I see it all the time. People pick the lowest monthly premium because it “saves money.” But what they don’t realize is that they might be paying way more out-of-pocket when they actually use the plan. It’s like buying a cheap pickup that breaks down every time you haul a trailer. Price matters, but value matters more.

2. Know Your Medications

If you take prescriptions, your plan’s drug list (called a formulary) is incredibly important. Some plans cover your meds with just a small copay. Others might not cover them at all. And with the recent changes, it’s more important than ever to double-check this before enrolling.

3. Your Doctor Might Not Be Covered

Just because your clinic accepts insurance doesn’t mean your specific doctor is in network. And out-of-network costs can be a rude surprise. Always verify network status. Don’t just trust the online search tool.

4. Plans Change Every Year

Even if you’ve had the same plan for five years, it’s not the same plan anymore. Networks change. Costs change. Coverage changes. That’s why I reach out to my clients every year during enrollment to help catch anything that might trip you up later.

5. A Local Agent Really Does Make a Difference

Working with a local agent doesn’t cost you anything extra. You pay the same price whether you go directly through the insurance company or through me. The difference? When you work with a local agent, you get personal help, real answers, and someone who actually knows your situation.

It’s kind of like buying feed for your animals. You could order it online from a big-box company, but your local feed store not only sells the same product at the same price—they also know your soil, your setup, and your challenges. They’ll tell you if something better is coming in next week or warn you if a batch didn’t perform well. That’s the kind of insight and personal service that just doesn’t come with a 1-800 number.

You shouldn’t have to figure this stuff out alone.

Need help making sense of your options?
Give us a call at 715-754-2166. Let’s make sure your plan fits you, not just the other way around.