Stop-Loss Demystified

Host Amanda Brummitt speaks with Tom Walaszek about the roles of brokers, MGUs, TPAs, medical carriers, and stop-loss carriers. Tom explains what stop-loss is, how level-funded and self-funded options differ, and why plan mirroring, runouts, and contract wording matter for employers. The episode also covers practical advice for employers evaluating funding strategies including what questions to ask, the importance of data and clinical support, and how a hardening insurance market may reduce options and raise costs. Tom recommends a multi-year approach when moving from fully insured to self-funded to manage risk and capture long-term savings.