By Brian Marsella – President; HPS, PayMedix and TempoPay
MILWAUKEE, March, 3rd, 2025 – Health care affordability is a growing challenge for businesses and employees across Wisconsin. Rising costs and complex systems have made it increasingly difficult for individuals, particularly those from historically underserved communities and low- to middle-income households, to receive timely medical attention.
As a result, many delay care until their budget allows or the situation becomes an emergency. This creates an uneven pattern of access for those without financial security, limiting consistent, proactive care.
This uneven pattern of care has serious consequences for individuals and businesses. One in four adults report delaying or forgoing medical care due to cost, which can lead to more costly and complex treatment down the line. Unhealthy employees lead to higher medical increases and decreased productivity in the workplace.
The impact of rising health care costs on employees
For many employees, managing health expenses means navigating uncertainty. On average, employees spend $1,142 out-of-pocket on medical care each year. When paired with the rising cost of household essentials, a bill of $500 poses a significant challenge for half of Americans.
These issues disproportionately impact people with lower incomes, and those who don’t have the financial flexibility to pay medical bills upfront or in full. Historically marginalized communities are particularly vulnerable, facing not only financial barriers but also systemic challenges in accessing quality care.
A consistent, simplified payment experience is the foundation
As more employees look to their employers for support, improving financial well-being and resilience has become a priority for businesses looking to attract and retain talent. Creating a more inclusive and predictable health care payment system must be a priority.
Employers, health care providers and health plans must work together to provide the support employees need to feel confident accessing care when they need it — not just when they think they can afford it. HPS and PayMedix work at this intersection, removing the confusion and friction that’s long plagued health care billing and payments to deliver a more impactful experience for all.
How HPS/PayMedix provides a financial foundation for medical care in Wisconsin
Traditional financing models favor individuals with strong credit histories and financial resources. Meanwhile those with less-than-ideal credit scores are often offered unfavorable terms, or subject to high interest rates as they make payments over time. For those who are starting to build a financial foundation, unexpected medical costs can drain bank accounts and derail plans, setting people further back on their financial journey.
Brokers, TPAs and employers partner with HPS and PayMedix to bridge these financial gaps, providing an equal opportunity for all employees to utilize their health benefits, maintain financial stability and stay well. By pairing HPS’ competitive network with high-performing TPAs and PayMedix’s complete financing and payments solution, our partners are reducing medical trends for local businesses.
The impact of this model in Wisconsin has been substantial — delivering a consistent and equitable approach to health care payments has helped over 41,500 members receive care when they need it and manage their payments in ways that work for them.
The role of TempoPay in expanding health equity
The addition of TempoPay to our product suite strengthens employers’ ability to deliver impactful financial wellness solutions to employees. This card-based interest-free financing solution helps employees pay for broader health and wellness costs, including prescription medications, vision, dental and even vet care for pets.
Offered as an employee benefit, TempoPay is an impactful addition to any employer’s health and wellness initiatives. Financial flexibility ensures that more individuals — no matter their financial situation — can take care of their health.
A path toward equitable health care
It’s more important than ever to focus on creating equitable access to care. Our industry must work together to deliver solutions that prioritize simplicity, affordability and financial inclusivity. By addressing the root causes of health care inequities — such as upfront costs and financing challenges — we can build a system that supports all employees, regardless of their income level or financial background.
This article also appears on Milwaukee Business Journal
