Common Terms, Acronyms, and Shorthands

Office of the Commissioner of Insurance

A state government agency that regulates the insurance industry, protecting consumers by licensing companies/agents, investigating complaints, enforcing laws, and promoting a stable market, generally acting as an intermediary between the public and insurers.  

Office of Inspector General

Protects Wisconsin taxpayers by tracking and preventing fraud, waste, and abuse in public assistance programs administered by DHS, like Medicaid, FoodShare, and Family Care. At the same time, OIG's internal audits protect the accountability of DHS programs and operations.

Out-of-pocket cost

The direct, personal expenses an individual pays for services that are not reimbursed by insurance. Generally including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance for covered, in-network care, but not premiums.

Period in which individuals can purchase or switch private health insurance plans for the upcoming year.

For coverage years 2027 and onwards, it occurs annually from November 1st to December 15th.